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Home-Schooling |
 It's that time
again when children are returning to school after summer vacation.
All of the required books and pens are purchased along with the new shoes and
T-shirts. But often we forget about the study space where the children will do
their homework. The success of a child's school year is affected by where he
studies. As an experienced teacher, designer and parent, I have learned about
the value of that special homework place. Children sense the importance of
homework if there is a special space for them to do this task.
What makes for a good place to do homework?
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Adequate space - Be certain that the child is not
cramped. If there is more than one child, they should not be working on top of
each other. Very often the kitchen table is designated. This only works if the
table is free of other activities. It may be a solution as well if the child
needs help in the process of the studies and dinner is being prepared at the
same time.
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Noise level - Quiet is, however, a requirement, so
if the kitchen is a hub of activity, a child cannot concentrate. A special
time slot may help to alleviate the problem. A possible routine would be:
serve a snack after school at the table, eat dinner and clear the dishes, then
launch into study time around the table so that Mom or Dad can help.
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Computers - With the addition of technology to
school curriculum, a computer may be necessary. In that case, a computer
station behind closed doors that open at times of study with an extension on
the desk top for books would be ideal. When the task is done, the desk
arrangement can be closed up and out of sight.
If two children are using one computer, they will need to schedule the times
and take take turns.
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Bedroom space - Often a child has a study space in
her room. This works if a child is older and does not need supervision, but
may be isolating for younger kids.
If your child's homework place is in her room, be certain that the space is,
again, big enough. Often the furniture stores sell student desks, but many are
so small that the child is cramped. There needs to be room for the text book,
the notebook, the homework assignment book, etc. If the child is working on a
special project, more space may be required.
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Storage - Be certain to have adequate storage for
the equipment for study. Also, do you have a bulletin board to tack up notes
and memos related to school? Is there a shelf for related books?
Extra pencils, pens and crayons are a good idea. Have an extra supply of paper
or notebooks, as well as a spare calculator. There should be no reason that
the homework cannot be completed.
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Lighting - Task lights for writing or reading are
appropriate. Lighting should be over the page but not in the face. Clip on
lights as well as free-standing lamps work well. Watch for glare on the
computer screen.
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Involve the kids in the design - Children will take
an interest if they have some input as to what the space looks like. Talk it
over with them and get their opinion. If at all possible, allow them to help
to select the computer, the desk and the colors of the area. Encourage them to
make their pencil holders out of cans and to decorate folders for storing
papers. Make it fun! They will respond.
Most importantly, remember that if the parents treat homework
as an important part of their children's life, this will rub off on the kids.
There is no substitution for a parent's interest in their children's homework
activities. The habits and disciplines children develop now will affect them for
the rest of their life. This is true no matter where the activities are located
or how well the spaces are designed. Take that from an old school teacher!
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