If there’s one thing we have learned in the last year it is that the spaces we have designated in our homes for tasks like school work and virtual meetings can be the difference between success and failure.
For all the downsides, COVID taught us that designated spaces matter, and nobody is impacted more than kids. While homework may be considered a chore for most kids, making it easier, more comfortable, or more accommodating can help.
The following are some tips we have found to be successful over the years to help Darvin customers create a perfect homework space for their kids.
1. Unique Spaces Create Enthusiasm
The best cure for a lack of enthusiasm for homework is to create a space that is, without compromise, designated kid-friendly or uniquely their own. Finding the
right furniture and accents to work from home is critical.
When you take into consideration the child (or children) who will be using the space, don’t miss the chance to incorporate some part of their personality, distinct activities, or
meaningful memorabilia that will make the space “all their own.” This can be achieved using everything from wall art and personal photos to favorite colors and sports.
2. Find Flexible Desk Option
A flexible homework station offers many advantages with possibly the most important being the other uses for the desk besides homework. A desk that can be used for homework at one
time and then utilized for building model planes or constructing Lego figures resists screaming “work” as its only function.
From the extremely popular standing desks and mobile desks to built-in shelves that double as homework stations, when space is at a premium you don’t have to sacrifice functionality. This includes proper task
lighting for reading and natural light options whenever possible.
3. Devil in the Details – Remove Clutter
While every child and family are different, one thing that is for sure – less is more when it comes to focusing on school work
and a proper distraction-free zone. It’s obvious a TV is a distraction, but depending on the age of the child, so are cartoon figurines and toys on the desk, or even colored markers.
Help your child understand how to categorize items and put away what’s not actually needed. Create labeled bins, drawers or organizer containers where these items can be stationed without getting in the way of focus.
4. Create Easy Accessibility
It’s one thing for a small space to have to serve several functions, but it’s another for it to be cluttered, cramped or blocked by other elements in the room.
This may be a reality in a smaller apartment or home, and the best thing to do is make it as accessible with as little fuss getting seated or standing at the work station.
If members of the family are constantly walking by or can be heard talking, it’s a real distraction that should be addressed. Set up your child’s homework area in low-traffic area or corner set off from popular areas of the home.