The Busy Nights of Homework are Just Around the Corner!
Does a work-space affect productivity and quality of work? It sure does! How those work-spaces look and feel are not a one-size-fits-all style though. How do you create an inspiring space for your child(ren) to focus and be creative while setting a good mood that motivates their best work? Well, that’s for you to have fun discovering and creating! Here are some tips to get you started!
Photo: DecorPad
#1 Consider your child’s learning style. There are many different types of learners and here are some of the basic styles to help guide the set-up of your child’s homework space. Are they a visual learner, auditory learner, reader/writer or kinesthetic learner?
Photo: Somewhat Simple
#2 Build a space that fits their learning style. If they are visual learners find a balance of visual stimulation that is related and supportive to the work they’ll be doing regularly. Auditory learners will most likely enjoy and stay focused in a space that is quiet from non-homework noise and offers plenty of listening opportunities whether that’s headphones for on-topic homework or even soft music that stimulates thinking and concentration. Plenty of paper, writing tools and research options will support a reader/writer style of learner. And have fun considering some hands-on items to include in a kinesthetic learners’ space! Objects like play dough, fidgets or an exercise ball as a seat are some ideas to consider. A kinesthetic learner will also likely benefit from having a larger space to learn in and allow for movement or even extra space to invite a study buddy to work alongside.
Photo: City Nest Design
#3 Consider and avoid distracting features in the space. Homework stations have become a fun space for designers to create and they often offer very aesthetically pleasing décor. Without careful consideration to how the people learn who are using the space, it isn’t always going to be a good fit for some students’ learning styles. Chalkboards and dry-erase boards are usually helpful features, but the content of what is on them matters to each student so let them guide how they use them. Too many decorations, patterns and colors might overwhelm some students while others might feel excited and stimulated by the visually pleasing effects. Get to know your child’s style and if you’re not sure how they learn best, ask their teachers. Teachers can give you their perspective and it might just lead you down a path that will pay off for your child and for your patience with them staying on task!
Photo: Project Girl
#4 Invite your child(ren) to be involved in creating the space. This will allow them to feel excited by their designated work-space, but will also allow them to take ownership of what makes them feel motivated to ultimately get their work done! This step is really a life skill that can be developed early on and used in all stages of learning whether that is in college or their career. Learning spaces will change with each person as they grow and develop. Even as we age, setting up an enjoyable space for learning and for rest and relaxation will support and benefit life-long-learning in us all!
Photo: Decoist
Have fun creating an ispiring learning space!
