We’re on lockdown Alert Level 4, but this does not mean business as usual for most schools. If your children are attending school on alternate days, then a large portion of their learning is taking place at home. Use some of our tips and tricks to take charge and optimise your home space for a comfortable, functional workstation.
Get organized
Use monthly planners to generate some excitement about getting organised. Buy a fun weekly or monthly planner, better yet, make your own. It’s a great creative project to give the kids to keep them busy on a rainy day during school holidays. Identify the key subjects and create subcategories as different tasks come up throughout the week.
Declutter
A desk area free of distractions can improve focus. Free your work space up by creating a dedicated space for school supplies. Drawers and shelves can help keep school supplies organised, but DIY shoeboxes, glass jars, muffin tins and shoe organisers can be just as effective. Colour code them so it’s on hand and easy to find.
Notice Boards
Get a notice board to pin all the important announcements from the school. It can be used to display the kid’s artwork or tests they've aced. Place it in the living room area, so that the entire family is up to date on school activities. It’s a great way to make the kids feel special about their progress. This dedicated notice space allows parents to factor in school activities into their schedule.
Reading zone
Create a reading nook dedicated to reading and quiet time. This can be found in even the smallest of spaces, such as a corner of the bedroom, pajama lounge, parlor, or in the lobby. Make sure that library rules apply in these sections. By associating calmness with reading, younger kids might feel encouraged to read more. Older kids might enjoy it too, as it signals time to zone out and turn off all devices for a tech-free zone.
Restructure common spaces
There are many nooks and crannies in your home that can be used for a conducive virtual learning environment. Even your home office can be rearranged to become a more inclusive space for your kids, while the kitchen could have an arts and craft section for cutting, painting, and drawing. For the older kids, the corridors can serve as a space for a little computer lab. This is also a great way to monitor online activity.
Get creative with your home, it's a Neverland waiting to be discovered!