It’s getting the learning space RIGHT that’s difficult… Home learning has been dominant in many of our lives lately, so creating a productive home learning space for your child is key for their educational development. In fact, turning a space in your home into a dedicated learning area can be simple and convenient for both parents and kids.
To help you along, read this list of expert advice to create a space your child will love learning in, as well as one you’ll love teaching in!
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Create a dedicated learning area
It’s not a secret that we can all get distracted now and again. The temptation of turning on the TV, heading to the fridge for a snack or doing anything other than work is hard to resist! This is especially relevant to children. So, creating a space dedicated to learning, with zero distractions, is a great place to start.
Experts in child education at Waterford.org say,
‘’The key is to create a specific routine and spot for your child’s learning. At the end of the day, it is most important to show your child that you value learning enough to give it a consistent place in your home.’’
You can do this by dedicating a specific room as the ‘school room’ where you can teach as well as bond with your child. Or, if like a lot of us you don’t have the space, creating a multifunctional work area is easier than you think!
Dedicate a corner of a room to home learning. Install a permanent desk, or use a fold-out table which can be removed when no longer in use. Fill a box full of learning materials and lay it all out on the dining room table when it’s time for school. You could even utilise a lap desk which can be used wherever is best for you and your child.
If you have more than one child, give them each a dedicated space to call their own. Do this by using dividers, or even by sitting between them at the table.
Whichever you choose, make sure the space is consistent. This will establish a solid routine, just like when they’re in the classroom.
- Create a fun visual learning space
It is known that visual stimuli are extremely encouraging to students. Because of this, creating a fun, bright and educational space through décor, will help them become more productive at home!
Displaying brightly coloured décor is a great starting point. Think bright letters and numbers for younger children, or even get them to create their own décor! Get out the arts and crafts and have your little one make their own art to display on the surrounding walls! This will not only get their creative juices flowing but will also get them involved in the decorating process!
Another way to get visual stimuli into your child’s home learning space is through a wallpaper mural. Display motivational quotes on the wall to remind your child that they can do anything they put their mind to! Or, think about what your child loves. If science is their thing, choose a mural or a metal print of the solar system, or if they have a love for geography, try a fun map! There are so many options to get your little one thinking in a visual way through children’s wall art.
- Display books
Research shows that by displaying books around the house, children will benefit greatly in terms of test scores. Books will not only improve their reading abilities but also expand their imagination.
It will be beneficial to create an area where your child can not only see a variety of books but also freely take them and read them whenever they want. Don’t be afraid to keep some spaces empty though!
Waterford.org say,
”You do not need to fill every corner of your learning space with endless books and educational tools. The learning space should have room to change as your child’s interests, educational abilities, and passions evolve.”
- A clutter-free desk space is key
Nobody likes clutter, especially when you’re trying to keep a productive school day on track. This is where storage comes in. It’s a must if you want to stay organised when home-schooling, but also remember displaying items is a good idea too! Especially when they have created their own fantastic work, such as symmetry art, butterfly jam jars, or a piece of imaginative writing.
Open shelving is a great way to do this. Choose a shelf unit with several levels that can be placed anywhere in the house. Fill the shelf with books, décor and school supplies to really make the most of the space. Imagine a little school ‘hub’ for your child to explore! This will not only keep their designated desk space free of clutter but will also create a supply area so nothing gets lost!
If you don’t have space for shelving, wooden boxes are also a brilliant way to store books, arts and crafts and stationery on the floor. Especially great for smaller children, this keeps the floor space clutter-free, whilst still accessible and stylish!
Sitting down for long periods of time can take its toll even on the littlest of people. So, making their home learning space comfortable is a must!
Oak Meadow school suggest that a comfortable working space must be made a priority.
‘’Uncomfortable seats make for fidgety students – and parents! Make sure you have enough space and comfortable seating for each student as well as the adult(s) who will be helping them.’’
This doesn’t have to be as complicated as buying all new furniture though! Something as simple as placing cushions on your dining room chairs can make yourself and your child a lot more comfortable. Changing seats can also be beneficial. Although not
recommended for the whole day, moving to the couch for tasks like reading time will switch up their sitting position and benefit their comfort levels throughout the day.
Editor-in-chief of Homeschool.com Jamie Gaddy, suggests that a comfortable chair can be highly beneficial for children learning from home.
“This is so important if your child is spending more than just a few minutes in their seat,” she said. “A chair that is ergonomic is important to help reduce fatigue and encourage concentration.”
Are you home-schooling your child at the moment? Follow these tips for creating a productive learning space and your child will thrive at home!
