The back-to-school period is an exciting time, as it can mean new beginnings for your child. This is a time for your child to refocus themselves, to set goals for the school year, and start back with healthy habits. Having features in the home that reinforce these behaviors can help your child stay on track when it comes to their academic goals.
Creating a dedicated office space at home is a great way to allow children to separate work from rest and play, and have a no-distraction zone, where they can complete homework assignments or study. Work with an interior designer to create an at-home environment that encourages academic growth and achievement for your child.
9 Ways to Design for Your Child’s Academic In-Home Needs
Each child has their own unique learning needs, however, some general tips can help every parent on their journey to creating a safe and private learning environment in the home for their children. Keep in mind that this will be your child’s space, and you should encourage them to feel responsible for it and that they have ownership over it. Consider including them in the design process when considering these 9 methods for creating their home learning space.
- Create a Nook for Electronics
Every family faces the difficulty of reducing screen time for their children. This can be even more difficult when it comes to completing school tasks, as many school assignments need to be completed on laptops or tablets. Dedicate a specific drawer or cabinet where electronics can be kept while your child is completing their academic work to avoid distractions.
Make sure that the electronics are not visible from the drawer or shelf, and that it is located next to or near a bookshelf with your child’s favorite books and their textbooks for school. This can help establish perspective and priorities.
- Dividers And Bins for Organizing School Supplies
Custom dividers and bins, either within a built-in cabinet in your home or located in a small closet next to your child’s desk, can help reduce clutter and encourage organization. Having access to colored pencils, paper, posters, and other school and craft supplies can bolster creativity during school projects and can help your children complete their homework assignments faster. Consider working with a designer to develop a custom space that will work best for your child and your family.
- Wall Planning
Having agendas and to-do lists on the wall can help your child learn more about planning and task completion. A seamlessly designed wall calendar with custom features such as wooden magnets that flow with the design of their room can allow your children to plan adequately and submit assignments on time. Weekly and daily to-do lists can be added to the wall calendar so that you can ensure the short-term learning goals are clear.
- Whiteboard or Chalkboard with Magnets
Having a large space for completing schoolwork can help your child better understand the material that they are studying, by mapping it out spatially. Providing a large whiteboard can help bolster critical thinking. Work with a designer to create a unique space for children to learn. Using chalkboard paint on the walls, whiteboards, or other useful items can help encourage learning in your home.
- Custom-Built Desks
To ensure maximal comfort, organization, and aesthetics, work with a designer to create custom-built cabinetry or a desk that fits the functionality of the space. When creating your desk space, consider using clean lines or opt for a more rustic look. A wrap-around desk that fits into wall corners can also optimize the use of the space and provide plenty of room for projects.
- Extend Your Existing Office
Creating a home learning space for your child can allow you to reinvent your existing office. If you and your child do not work during similar hours, then your child’s learning space can function as an extension of your office. An experienced interior designer can help you meld the functional and aesthetic needs of you and your child to create a space that drives productivity and creativity for the whole family.
- Stylish Office Chairs
Office chairs are a detail that should not be overlooked when designing your home office. A dark leather plush armchair on rolling wheels is a timeless classic that can be used for a more sophisticated design, while fun fabrics such as felt patchwork or velvet can be used in a more playful home office. Opt for chairs instead of stools for maximum comfort, and make sure that the chairs have enough lumbar support so that your child can sit comfortably.
- Natural Lighting
Appropriate lighting is an important factor to consider when creating a learning environment for your child. Natural lighting has many aesthetic benefits and can help promote good habits such as better concentration and positive energy. Work with an interior designer to find an area in your home with natural light to promote a positive learning space.
- Inspirational Design
The design of your child’s learning space can serve as a daily inspiration to them, as well as a reminder of why it’s important to pursue academic success and curiosity. For example, if your child aspires to be an astronaut, then a space-themed learning environment could be a strong fit for them. Inspirational pop art pieces featuring their role models can be displayed as well. Being creative can help make learning fun.
Work With a Thoughtful Designer
When it comes to creating and building a home office for your child, it’s important to find a designer that can take your family’s unique needs into account.
Contact Rob Turner of CRT Studio at rob@crtstudio.com or by calling (407) 440-4446, to help create a learning space that your family can thrive in.