Designing a Kid’s Homework Space That Motivates

When exactly is the last time your home office, private study, or kitchen workspace was a motivator during your kid’s homework time? For a majority of parents, the answer is, “I don’t know if it ever was…”

Getting your kids to actually study is a lot simpler when they have an appealing space to crack open their books. So whether you’re setting up grade-schoolers to conduct a science experiment, or preparing a college student for those late night cram sessions, these tips for creating the ideal kid’s homework space are sure to inspire a strong, independent work ethic.

Creative Scheduling

Is your child the type of student who needs to glance at a schedule every morning? If the answer is “yes” but you’re tired of the same old boring old cork board, try utilizing a writing slate, scratch pad, or a chalkboard door for a more shabby-chic look that can be easily integrated into your current space.

Let Some Light In

Daylight is good for the mind and body, so try to build that homework space close to a window. Kids can absorb some precious Vitamin D while working on their vocabulary for next week’s test.

Streamline Your Kid’s Homework

Keeping your kid’s homework space streamlined and simple helps them stay on task, regardless of how many assignments and projects they may be juggling at once. Consider incorporating cubbies into the design so your child knows exactly where ‘New Assignments’ and ‘Finished Assignments’ are at a glance.

Add Some Greens

Plants add a refreshing aura to any desk and help get kids’ brains pumping with oxygen, which stimulates creativity and critical thinking. For a fun DIY look, add plants to a Mason jar or aluminum bucket and fill it with water.

Say ‘No’ to Internet Surfing

While most kids claim they have the will-power to control how much time they spend surfing the Internet and social media, the truth is, most don’t. Instead of letting them cozy up with their laptop on the floor, get them in the habit of sitting at a desk where you’ve posted reminders and inspirational quotes to help them stay focused. Introducing a set ‘social media leisure time’ into their schedule can also be a positive compromise – after they’ve finished their homework, of course.

So if you’re tired of staying up half the night hovering over their shoulder to make sure they get their work done, it may be time to re-think the design of your kid’s homework space.

• Transform an empty wall or nook in your kid’s bedroom into a custom workstation that’s perfect for homework, complete with chalkboard and cubbies. Find out more.

• Are you ready for back to school? Check out our FREE Guide to Helpful Tips!