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Getting kids to knuckle down and concentrate on their school work can be a real battle for parents. Minimizing distractions and setting up a clean, well-organized study space promotes learning and helps kids focus on the work at hand. Most parents would agree that homework goes much better when children understand the material and don't get frustrated. That’s much less likely to happen if there aren’t any video screens or handheld devices within easy reach. An effective study space shouldn’t be a play zone or a brightly decorated showplace; it should be a serious and well-appointed (but comfortable) area that’s conducive to concentration and learning.
Downgrade the Entertainment Factor
Look for a part of the house that’s separated from televisions and rooms where people are making a lot of noise. The study space doesn’t have to be large, but it should be free of toys and personal items that could cause your child’s thoughts to wander. Steer clear of background music like rap or rock, though soft music can have a relaxing effect that aids concentration. Make sure there’s plenty of light. If you prefer natural light, This Old House suggests keeping the desk or work table away from a window overlooking the yard; the view could prove a little too inviting for a youngster who just can’t wait to get outside and play basketball.
Calming Colors
There’s a reason you don’t see a lot of vibrant colors in the hallways of your child’s school. Kids tend to concentrate better when surrounded by soft, calming colors, like green leaf tones or shades of blue. A sultry red hue decorated with posters of rap stars is unlikely to steer your child’s thoughts toward algebra or English literature.
A relaxing color will help keep school work anxiety under control and your child focused on the work at hand. Consider acquiring new wallpaper for the study space to underscore its purpose as a learning area. If you’re unsure what pattern will work best in the space, you can order test swatches in peel-and-stick papers to find the best one.
Work Room
A good study area should include a desk or table large enough to accommodate the tools of learning, including a computer, books, a lamp, school supplies, and a place to file and organize papers. Make sure your scholar has a comfortable and supportive chair. If your child enjoys art, make sure there’s enough room to express himself through painting, drawing, or sculpting. If your child is a budding musician, make sure the space has what he needs.
Kids who are involved in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities may need space for experimentation and special projects. The space should be large enough to move around in, an important factor for children who tend to learn better when they’re moving around and interacting with their environment. Don’t forget to keep the temperature at an agreeable mid-range; if the space is too hot or too cold, your little learner could be easily distracted.
Background Noise
Some homes are too small and too busy to realistically keep the noise level down when your child needs to study. If you can’t create a space that’s far enough away from the hubbub, consider getting a noise-reducing or canceling device. There are headphones specifically designed to reduce or block out external noise, and some even produce white noise. Sometimes, a fan set on low or medium can help inhibit distracting background noise. There are also plenty of sound machine apps that can replicate fans, rain, and other soothing sounds.
Bedroom
Teachers and study experts recommend that a child’s bedroom shouldn’t double as his study space. A child’s bedroom can be very distracting; it’s usually decorated and there are treasured belongings all around. If the bedroom is your only option, create a study zone within the bedroom that includes everything your kid needs to get homework done without interruptions. Consider purchasing a room divider to set off the study area from the sleeping and play area.
Don’t Be Afraid to Share
These days, parents and children are going to school at the same time. The rise of online universities means that parents interested in getting their bachelor’s degree, for example, no longer need to spend time in a physical classroom setting; instead, they’ll do most of their learning at home. If you’re short on space but you and your kids need a place to study, why not create a space you both can share? Follow all of the recommendations outlined above, but tailor the area so that everyone can make good use of the limited space in your home.
There are countless distractions that can prevent your child from benefiting from homework and study time. It’s important to establish an environment that allows children to develop study skills and learn self-discipline, two factors that are essential to their growth and maturity.
Image courtesy of Pixabay.com
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