This year’s virtual year is off to a quick start with some kids returning to school as early as this week and some as soon as September 1st. As the time approaches, it’s necessary for parents to finalize a study space for their child. Having a study/creative space for your child will help put the kids in school mode mentally and emotionally.
Your study space doesn’t have to be extremely fancy, but it would help if the space was created with just a few new items. These items can easily be printed images from online or inspirational quotes. Walmart, Target, and even Dollar Tree have lots of inspirational office decor. Hang positive sayings and pictures around the area for a vibe to learn. Be sure to have a place for pencils, folders, and notebooks.
You want to make the space comfortable but not too comfortable. Your child’s table/desk and chair should be pretty comfortable but again not too comfortable. Purchasing a mousepad and a mouse to plug into the chrome book can go a long way. It will remind the child of school PCs. A reading light and pencil sharpener can set the mood as well.
Purchasing a plant has been proven to improve indoor air quality and helps with better thinking. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. It doesn’t even need to be big to get the job done. Something simple with a little natural light will set the mood.
It would be nice to create a schedule with a start time, break time, lunch time, and end time. Seeing a schedule can help improve you and your child’s ability to stay on task and be effective. Print the schedule out and hang it. Let it be a reminder of the tasks at hand. Don’t forget breakfast. A balanced breakfast before the school day starts will add to a better focus.
Keep the space a “work only” space. When the child is eating or taking a break, make sure that they leave the work area. Don’t allow them to sit there and watch tv or scroll on their phone. Keep the space sacred. Keep it special. Have them turn off their phones if necessary. It will create a mental note that it is time for school when they are in the new study space.
When school is over be sure to review the days work and celebrate their mini successes. Help or find help when in need. Learn how to make this year a rewarding success.
Encourage your child daily. Find ways to keep them motivated whether it be listening to an inspirational message on YouTube each Monday morning or ending the week with a fun project. Whatever it is, let them have fun while they learn this new level of self discipline.
You got this!