At-home learning can be a real challenge—especially when you don’t have the best space for your kids to do it. But it doesn’t have to be! You can easily create an engaging environment for your children to learn in.
First, you’ll want to make a school-only space. If you set up in a playroom or in your child’s bedroom, they may become easily distracted by their toys, electronics, etc. You can dedicate a corner of a room or create a space that’s flexible and easily packed up at the end of each day. Either way, when your child is there, they know it is to learn.
If you have multiple kids working at the same table, it may be challenging to keep them focused on their work because of noise or distraction. An easy way to keep their eyes trained on their own books is to use posterboard or cardboard boxes to create makeshift “cubicles.”
Next, create a special place for supplies. No one wants papers, pencils, notecards, etc., strewn everywhere. Not only does it make them harder to find, but it makes your environment chaotic. For just $25 or less, you can buy a plastic drawer organizer to store your supplies and add simple labels to indicate what’s in each drawer. Just make sure you keep the drawer nearby for easy grabbing.
It’s also important to make your environment feel fun and comfortable. Consider letting your student(s) decorate their desk or “cubicles” with stickers, dollar store knick-knacks, organizational items, or a cool task lamp. Kids enjoy having a space that is uniquely theirs. You can also add a few bean bags for cozy reading sessions, or for your more fidgety kids, switch out stiff desk chairs for yoga balls they can bounce on.
Lastly, and most importantly, remember that each child is different. You must do what works for them! It’s not about creating the perfect, Pinterest-worthy classroom; it’s about understanding your child’s needs so that they can have the most successful learning space possible.