There are many reasons to homeschool your kids, but the only way to homeschool properly is in a safe, well-supplied, and inspirational place. The environment has everything to do with your children’s progress, and a comfortable, neutral location can ensure your kids can focus on the work at hand. Consider the following while preparing an ideal homeschooling space in your home.
Find a Neutral Space
You can easily convert a basement into a classroom with little difficulty. Likewise, if you have an extra room currently serving as a storage area or some similar purpose, consider turning it into your one-room schoolhouse.
Otherwise, you could build a school time nook in the living room, rec room, or perhaps the kitchen. Avoid turning their bedroom or playroom into a homeschooling space—too many fun diversions there!
Squash Distractions
Set up the space to focus young attention spans on the work at hand. Set up a desk but face it away from any doors or windows.
You may also want to mount a calendar, to-do list, wipe board, or something supporting the lesson of the week (multiplication tables, contractions, or what have you) so it’s the first thing they see when they look up. Obviously, you should eliminate or limit the use of phones, TVs, iPads, and even your own smartphone while in the room.
Make It Institutional Yet Personal
Kids need to know that while learning can be fun, the homeschooling space is a workspace—but not a lifeless one! Mimic a traditional classroom set up with a desk (and if you need tutoring services, check out Home Tuition in Singapore); a cubby hole for books and other items not in use; cups, carriers, and receptacles for pencils, crayons, paper, and other supplies; and so on. Let the kids decorate and personalize with stickers, markers, and other non-messy materials.
A Place To Write, a Place To Read, a Place To Create
When preparing an ideal homeschooling space, don’t make a space where your kids feel chained to a desk all day. Set up separate, comfortable spaces for reading and artistic expression.
A reading space just requires a quiet spot with a small couch or a set of cushions. An art table needs a wider working area, and be sure to spread a tarp, rug, or other wipeable or washable surface underneath to handle messy stains and spills.
Bright Kids Need Bright Lights
Keep things clear by keeping your homeschooling space brightly lit. Avoid higher wattage bulbs that can grow hotter and make kids uncomfortable; LED bulbs and indirect lighting provide plenty of light without the discomfort.
Additionally, don’t underestimate the calming and healthful effects of natural lighting; kiddos shouldn’t stare out the window all day but having the sun at their back while they work is a perfect setup.
More Homeschooling Tips
