The kids are back to school and that means homework!
Unfortunately, the arrival of back to school homework also means books, gadgets, binders and papers strewn across your dining room table when you get home from work – not exactly your idea of the perfect study area (let alone dining area!)
The solution? Create a study zone your kids will look forward to using (leaving your dining table neat, clean and ready to set!
The Three Rules of Study Areas: Location, Location, Location
Kids who enjoy doing agree to do their homework in the living room or dining area often do so because they know you’re close by. They like to be in on the action or perhaps near the fridge for a snack. Best of all, they have easy access to you, should a tricky homework question arise.
Although it’s less than desirable to have your kids plunk down their homework at the dinner table, there’s no reason why you can’t create a homework zone nearby.
Make a compromise. Take a look around for opportunities to create a study area.
If space permits, a small table and chair set just outside the kitchen provides a bit of privacy for independent workers, yet still gives you a chance to check in while cooking dinner.
Customize their workspace by painting it in their favorite color (or at least something that contrasts nicely with your décor) and let them know it’s their special space.
If a desk or table and chair set doesn’t work with your décor, opt for a special table they can pull right up to the couch, like this Mod Accent Table in Chrome. The base slides right under the sofa creating a temporary tucked in workspace and it looks great with most modern décor.
The Study Area Challenge: Finding The Space
While some kids like being in the middle of the action, others need more of a concentration zone.
If space is the issue, a fun way to create an easy homework zone in their bedroom is to take the doors off a little-used closet and line the walls with a creative pattern. This creates a handy homework alcove, just big enough for a floating desk and tucked away chair.
Although desk areas are most common, homework zones can be unconventional too. A bare corner in your child’s room can easily be transitioned into a creative pillow nook with beanbag sacks and fluffy fabrics to !nspire their imagination.
But our favorite unconventional space-saving idea- especially if your student is on the younger side – is the Wrangler Single Size Bed In Gunmetal. This jeep-inspired bed has a footboard that extends into a working desk; a two-in-one design that’s sure to please the pickiest kid.
Banish Clutter With Smart Storage Ideas
Be mindful of clutter. There’s no reason to be unorganized when there are so many creative storage options to explore.
Corkboard and chalk paint are both fun and exciting ways to help your kids stay organized, so choose a wall and go for it!
Cork is great because you can tack bits and bobs like reminders and permission slips right above their workspace, while chalk walls are perfect for to-do lists and fun doodles at the end of a heavy homework session.
Let your child have fun with bins! Whether you choose cloth, wicker, paper or plastic, storage bins come in every color, shape and size imaginable, making organization easier (and more customizable) than ever.
Don’t forget about electronic organization. Laptop bags and iPad cases help gadgets last longer, while these fabulous DIY ideas help hide cords and cables.
Although your kids’ design ideas might not match your own, their feedback will make their study space more appealing to them. If you create a space that appeals to them, studying may become a little more appealing too!