Create a Functional Study Space for Your Child
A Dedicated Homework Area Helps Keep Kids Focused
Feb 8, 2009
One of the best things you can do for your school-aged children is to create a functional study space where they can tackle homework and study.
Suit the Child's Age
For elementary students who are just learning study skills, or for older children who require supervision, set study space up in an area close to where you’ll be, but where you can control distractions (visible toys and computer games, cell phones, television or a friendly dog.) Likely locations include the family room, kitchen or adjoining hallways and niches. Responsible older kids who have the homework routine down pat might do just fine in a dedicated homework spot in their own rooms.
Many parents want the computer out of their children’s bedroom and are setting them up in a family room, kitchen or eating area so they can keep close tabs on what’s going on. But no matter where you put the computer, provide plenty of easily-reached, organized storage so kids can stay focused. The more accessible and easy the storage is to use, the more likely it is that kids will use it. One option: readily available bookcases outfitted with attractive pullouts, bins or baskets.
Blend Spaces Together
If a homework area must occupy center stage in the kitchen or the adjacent family or great room, use painted, stock or custom cabinetry to create a functional and efficient workspace that’s attractive and that blends into the surroundings. Plan a desk area that's at least 60 inches long and 25 inches deep to provide the necessary elbow room. If you can spare more space, make the study area longer, so it's large enough for two kids. When homework is finished, that same space can work for craft projects or to play computer games with a friend or sibling.
Dedicate the area directly above the desk surface to open bookshelves and display space. Add lighting that extends the length of the desk surface to properly illuminate the work area. If the desk houses a full- sized computer, add a keyboard drawer, so it can be stashed out of sight when not in use. Devote the area below the desktop to file and regular drawers or storage concealed behind doors.
For some children, the hustle and bustle of the kitchen makes it difficult to concentrate, so they may be better off near, but not in, the kitchen. If you live in a home with a porch, sunroom or butler's pantry, adjacent to the kitchen, consider giving it a new role.These spaces are generally separate from the kitchen but close enough so an adult can help the child.Tip: Use cabinets that match those in the kitchen but opt for durable and nearly kid-proof laminate instead of more costly granite for the work surface.
A Small Space Will Do
It is possible to set up an efficient study space in as little space as a good-sized closet. If your child's bedroom room has two closets, turn one into a study nook. Or perhaps that catchall closet in the family room could be converted to an efficient study nook.
If you use a closet, plan it with a large opening with two doors that swing into the room, rather than slide past each other. Hire an electrician to add at least one outlet inside the closet. Line the space with a durable work surface, such as a laminate countertop. Install it at a comfortable work height, but one that allows you to tuck at least one set of drawers underneath, usually 28-30 inches off the floor. Add cabinets or open shelves to the back wall for storage. Include lighting focused on the work surface. Install a cork or magnetic board on the wall above the desk to create a message/work board.
Follow these tips and you can provide a study space so your child can stay organized and focused.
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