As summer winds down, it’s time to start thinking about getting back to school. There is a lot to do before classes begin again — getting backpacks and supplies, shopping for new school clothes, and scheduling things like annual exams and sports physicals. One other thing to add to your to-do list before fall is creating a study space in your home.
Creating a dedicated area where your children can efficiently do their homework can boost academic success. It is undoubtedly harder to study when the study space is:
- Noisy or has a lot of distractions
- Uncomfortable
- Too small to spread out
- Too large to have tools and reference materials within reach
- Poorly lit or not properly furnished
Fortunately, you can create an effective space for studying with these six tips.
1. Choose the right location.
It’s tempting to think that kids can just do their homework on the dining room table or the kitchen island – you might even think that’s a good idea so you can help them! But multi-purpose rooms where everyone gathers are not ideal for homework and studying. They create distractions that make it harder for your child to focus. Instead, select a place where they can have some privacy and quiet away from the main living area. A loft, for example, is the perfect place if your home has one.
2. Add comfortable furniture and lighting.
To create an optimal study space in your home, comfortable furniture is a must and includes the right-sized desk and a good chair. Your kids should be able to sit in an ergonomic position for an extended time. This is especially important for teenagers or college-age kids whose homework is more involved.
3. Keep essentials in reach.
It is difficult to focus when you constantly have to get up and search for things like pens, paper, markers and reference materials. When you create a study space, think about efficient layouts that provide all the things your child needs within arm’s length. Features like built-in shelves in a loft area can provide convenient space to keep books, along with desks and drawers that have all the school supplies at hand.
4. Remove distractions.
Some homes don’t have a lot of extra space available, or you might want to have a multi-purpose room for studying and recreation. If you’re using a loft or recreation room as a study space, set parental controls or keep controllers and remotes locked in a drawer to prevent kids from turning on the TV or playing video games when they are supposed to be studying.
5. Set smartphone and internet limits.
These days, we have the ultimate distraction and we keep it in our pockets, purses or hands at all times: our smartphones. If your child has a smartphone with social media, games or internet access, use apps that limit activity during study hours. Your child also might be doing homework on a computer and need access to the internet for their assignments. These digital tools can help you reign in unauthorized activity during study time.
6. Pay attention to the little details.
While not essential for studying, there are some small things you can add to improve a study space. These include items like:
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- Stress balls
- A whiteboard
- Sticky notes
- A printer
- A timer or clock
These little things can help children feel comfortable in their space and facilitate different learning styles.
Find a study space in your home with Craftmark Homes.
If it’s difficult to find the right study spot, get what you need in a new Craftmark home. Learn more about the thoughtful designs and convenient living features in our floor plans today!