HOW TO CREATE AN AT-HOME LEARNING SPACE

When creating a home learning environment, there are several factors to consider in order to make the experience a positive one for you and your child. However, with some simple care and organization, you can turn your home into a productive learning environment in a matter of days.

Here are some tips to help you get started.

Create a Special Space for Learning

Choosing a dedicated learning space helps improve focus for your child. Your best bet is to create a distraction-free zone that is quiet and includes adequate lighting. In terms of furniture, a dedicated desk for your child is ideal versus the couch or kitchen table. In fact, if you have room in your home, you might consider a standing school desk, which can help your child focus and be more productive. 

If you have a dedicated room for learning, consider painting the walls to add a splash of color. For inspiration, think about what your child’s classroom looks like or head to Pinterest for easy ways to spruce up your learning space. Also, while technology may be needed to facilitate learning, be sure to have your child turn off and remove any unnecessary devices from the learning area in order to avoid distraction.

Set a Daily Schedule

If possible, work with your child to create a schedule. Their input is crucial to the success and commitment to make each day manageable for everyone. Do your best to make sure that learning begins and ends at the same time every day. The same goes for a morning and afternoon break, if necessary. Also, focus on certain subjects at the same time daily. Building this routine will set expectations for your child and help them be prepared for each subject. After your child gets into a rhythm, you can decide if any changes to your daily schedule are necessary based on their behavior.

Stay Organized

In addition to sticking to a daily routine, be sure to help your child keep their supplies organized. For example, after art class has concluded, be sure to direct your child to clean up and store those items in their designated spot. It’s ideal to organize supplies by subject so that when you’re ready to teach that subject, it’s easy for your child to retrieve what’s needed at the right time. Not only does staying organized help build healthy habits for children, it ensures that your schedule can be kept without the distraction and stress of looking for lost materials.

Get Outside

In order to break up the monotony of the day, consider a quick walk or hike with your child to boost energy levels. Or, consider a field trip to your local art museum, botanical garden, or zoo to add a fun, interactive activity. There are also free online workouts, or virtual P.E. classes, you could do together at home. In any case, you’ll likely find an outdoor journey or physical activity to be a great learning experience and mood booster for you both.

Leave Room for Improvement

If at-home teaching and learning is new for you and your child, it’s going to take some time for you both to get into a rhythm. Keep in mind that you might need to adjust your routine as you learn what is working and what isn’t. It’s a learning experience for you both, so be patient with yourself and your child.

The good news is that there are a number of resources and tools to help guide you through the process of at-home learning. And, remember you’re not alone—if you need to, reach out to fellow parents going through the same experience. You’ll likely find sharing advice to be helpful for you both as you develop your educational plan.