When it’s back-to-school time in Philadelphia, kids have to readjust to a new routine of classes and homework — which can be hard, when the distractions of the big city are competing for their attention. It’s a good idea to set aside a special study space in your Philadelphia home to encourage your children to come home early and do their homework. Select a spot that’s comfortable, quiet, and somewhat isolated from the hubbub of the rest of the house, but where the child can still be monitored by an adult. Make this special study space friendly and inviting, so that your kids will actually want to spend time there.

Find a Place with Natural Light

Exposure to natural light can make you more productive and creative. So try to pick a homework area that faces the west side of the home so that the child has a few hours of sunlight left after school to complete his work. If possible, pick a window area that faces the woods, a back yard, or a quiet courtyard instead of the street — Philadelphia is a bustling city with plenty of outdoor distractions.

Pick Child-Appropriate Desks and Chairs

Most desks and chairs are designed for adults and can be uncomfortable for children. Invest in special furniture that’s the proper height and size for the child. Ensure that the desk is equipped with all supplies that the child will need to complete her work without having to get up, which will break her concentration.

Separate Study Time from Computer Time

Try to find a study area that’s not near a computer or other distracting electronic devices. While much of today’s schoolwork requires some level of online activity, a child shouldn’t be studying in front of a computer. When it’s homework time, a child should only be using the computer when online work is necessary. You want to guarantee network access for a child’s school research, but it’s important to monitor computer use closely, as it can quickly turn into idle browsing.

Minimize Noise Levels

The area of the home that you choose for the child’s study space should have minimal noise. Locate it as far as possible from the distracting din of the household — things like washing machines, televisions, and other children playing instruments in their rooms. But silence isn’t mandatory, either: Playing soft classical or inspirational music in the background might help boost the child’s productivity.

Keep Aesthetics In Mind

Even the smallest details can matter when you’re designing an inviting study space for your children. First off, the space should be colorful to stimulate the child’s mind. Study color theory when picking colors: Red is stimulating, green can be calming and harmonizing, and some shades of blue can be energizing. Personalize the space: If your child is inspired by Philadelphia football, try adding some “Eagles Green” to the decor of the room. Add a bean bag to one area of the room where the student can relax and read comfortably.

Use these tips as a jumping-off point and ask the child what she needs to be productive and comfortable when doing homework. If you create a study space that inspires children to want to study and complete their work, these good habits can follow them into adulthood.

Image Source: Flickr/Steven S.

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