How To Create The Perfect Homework Station For Your Kids

Life can seem pretty hectic when it comes to managing your children's activities and homework schedules. There's also no guarantee that the task of getting them to do their homework will go over well, as it can be an overwhelming and frustrating time for both of you, per The New York Times. Because of this, it makes sense for there to be a dedicated place in your home where your children can focus and comfortably do their homework that isn't in their bedroom or at your kitchen table.

However, unlike the somewhat straightforward process of preparing for their return to school with all of their supply lists, when it comes to crafting a suitable workstation for your children, it's easier said than done. Nevertheless, there are a handful of things you can do and should consider that can make piecing the space together easier — and may make a big difference in the outcome of your homework station.

When it comes to creating the perfect space for homework, it's best to start by finding the right location in your home as that can help your child retain information and keep their attention from straying (via Grade Power Learning). There are, however, a few questions you should ask yourself before you commit to a particular area.

First, you'll want to determine whether or not the place you have in mind is a distraction free zone. This can be done by walking through the space and paying close attention to how quiet and secluded it is. You should also take into account the room's lighting situation, as those who study in well-lit places tend to be less distracted and more alert than those who don't, as noted by Desk Advisor.

Once you've found a suitable location, your next step will be to figure out how to functionally use the room so your child can get the most out of it. This will likely take some time and thought as you'll have assess if the space is big enough for multiple workstations, as well as a central calendar that can help keep kids on track, per The Container Store. You may also want to consider the space's storage options, as there's no guarantee that each and every location will have a closet.

After you've selected a location and assessed how to functionally use the space, you'll want to begin piecing together an organizational system. Doing so can be beneficial for not only your child's homework habits, but also for their overall academic success in school, says Parent Today. Note that it's best to start by creating a system that's able to grow and adapt with your child as they age.

This may mean working with your child to figure out their organizational preferences, whether it's color coding, labeling, or using clear bins that allow them see all of their supplies. It could also mean giving them more accessible study materials via the use of stackable trays, lazy Susans, and even rolling carts that can move around the room as needed (via The Container Store).

In addition to listening to their preferences, you may also want to consider organizational methods that are compatible with different types of learning styles, as there are currently 170 total, according to Scientific American. There's also no guarantee that each and every child using the homework station processes and retains information the same way, so adaptable organization can be especially useful.

While having a functional and organized study station can be key for your child's success, don't forget to prioritize their comfort in the space, too. Doing so can help keep them at ease while they're working and make their homework routine easier to maintain, according to the Barefoot Project. It can also encourage kids to spend more time in the room — just be careful not to make it too comfortable as it may relax them instead.

Comfort can be achieved in a number of ways, but the most effective approach is to ask your child what they need from the space and include them in the furnishing process. This can give you some much needed insight into what they find ideal, such as what height they like their workspace at and what type of seating they prefer. It can also help kids connect with the area more, as you're allowing them to personalize it and make it their own.

Don't forget to make sure that your select furniture can change along with your child's needs, as noted by The Strategist. Pay close attention to the ergonomics of the furniture and adjusting them as needed with pillows and blankets and such. You may also want to take into account your kid's study habits, as they can help you determine what will work best for them, whether or not they realize it themselves.

Considering how important the environment of your child's homework station is, customization can be essential when making it a pleasing and positive space. Be careful, though, not to box yourself in while planning, as customization is more than just incorporating ergonomic furniture and organizational systems. Instead, treat the station as if it's an extension of your child's bedroom and plan with a few ideas in mind as to how you can make it more personal for them.

This may involve referencing your child's interests and hobbies with décor and artwork, as well as displaying meaningful items like photographs, awards, and keepsakes in the space for them. You may also want to find a way to incorporate their favorite colors into the workstation; that has been found to improve children's memory in educational settings and can help to nurture positive learning environments (via Grant Larson Productions). Color can come in especially handy if you have multiple kids using the area at one time, as it can help to differentiate and personalize each workstation.

While the purpose of a homework station is to be a distraction-free zone where your children can concentrate on their work, the room should be more than just a workspace. With this in mind — as well as Grade Power Learning's recommendation to give your child a few breaks during homework time — it doesn't hurt to provide kids with a few creative outlets in the room that can keep them engaged.

These outlets can come in many shapes, sizes, and forms, but should serve as a source of inspiration. They also allow your child to momentarily disconnect and develop skills they may not necessarily be engaging with their homework. And although there are some types of break spaces that are more common than others, such as reading nooks, don't be afraid to think outside the box and embrace the unexpected.

One way to do so is by installing an interactive Lego wall. These types of hands-on displays have become popular in the workplace due to their ability to boost morale. But for children, Lego walls can help develop their fine motor skills, their communication skills, and their problem solving skills (via The Barossa Co-op). If your child would rather express themselves through art, mounted paper rolls like this one from Target may be ideal as they can provide your child with a creative space, can be mounted almost anywhere, and don't require a ton of clean up.