A new school year is just around the corner—exciting for kids who are looking forward to in-person learning, and a welcome break for you
The beginning of school also brings with it that unavoidable essential: homework.
One way to help turn homework into a positive experience is by having a designated area for homework in your home. Carving out a spot conveys that homework is important, which is essential for keeping your child motivated and on track.
Ready to set up a homework hub? The following pointers ensure it will make the grade.
- Start with peace and quiet. Choose a low-traffic area of your house to avoid distractions like siblings, video games and the TV. Even an out-of-the-way corner of the living room will work.
- Light it up. Natural light is energizing, making a space next to a window ideal (although you’ll need to balance the perks of natural light with potential distractions from outside). An adjustable desk lamp and good overhead lighting are also key to minimizing strain on your child’s eyes.
- Make it comfortable. Your child should be able to put his feet flat on the floor when he sits in his chair. If the chair is too high, place a footstool or shoebox under his feet. His work surface should be about waist-high (he should be able to rest his elbows on the table without hunching up his shoulders).
- Keep supplies within reach. A portable supply caddy is great for holding and organizing frequently used pencils, erasers, markers, and glue. A small caddy doesn’t take up a lot of space on a work surface, and you can easily store it in a cabinet when it’s not needed.
- Conquer clutter. Placing a trash can next to your child’s desk may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s an easy way to keep the area clutter-free
- Hang a calendar. Help your child plan and manage deadlines by recording important project or test dates and school events on an eyecatching wall calendar.
- Personalize it. Hang a few pieces of your child’s artwork or some of his favorite photos on the wall. Or put a thin piece of clear acrylic glass over the desktop; your child can put photos or artwork between the acrylic and the desk. (An added bonus: the acrylic protects the desk surface.)
To speak with Linda to learn more about her Window to Design store, you can contact her at (480) 207-6450, or visit her website — windowtodesign.com, or instagram.com/windowtodesign.