Making Class Work From Home
This year has been full of changes for us all. One of the biggest and most challenging adjustments for so many families has been creating room in our homes for work, leisure and school. That’s a lot to pack into a home of any size. We’re here to help! If you have school-aged children, here are some tips to help you set your kids up for success by creating a functional and fun virtual learning space.
Tip 1
Find a space in your home that gets the least amount of use. Is there an empty wall in your living room or a large hallway that doesn’t get used? Or maybe a niche in a bedroom, guest bedroom, closet or even a garage?
Tip 2
Look for pieces that offer storage. If you go for a simple Parsons style desk, consider adding a portable storage cart (like Ikea’s Raskog Utility cart) to house school supplies. Use vertical space to store things like pinboards and floating shelves.
Tip 3
Go bold! Virtual learning may be sticking around longer than we would like but it is temporary. Thus, go with happy, energizing and inspiring colors, patterns and décor. Retailers like Target, Minted and even Amazon, have a temporary peel and stick wallpaper in a variety of styles, patterns and colors. Check online for easy how-to install instructional videos. If you do not want to go that route, there is always paint!
Tip 4
Select accessories with functional but fun pieces like desk accessories, table lamps, art, and plants – yes plants! Involve the kids when selecting things for their space so they feel like it is personalized and will enjoy using it. Furthermore, incorporate elements that are familiar to them in a normal classroom setting like incentive systems, bulletin boards of their work, a mini locker, etc.
Also, try to use a space that has as much light (preferably natural light) as possible. This will help with overall mood and morale for all the changes our kids are going through right now.
