HOW TO DESIGN AN EFFECTIVE STUDY SPACE IN YOUR HOME

After a productive day at school, does your child have a study space that is conducive for learning? I believe that, as a parent, we all need to encourage learning even at home. In order to create an ideal study area that improves sharpness and mental focus, take note of the five suggestions I listed below:

• Get comfortable and relax. This space is not a classroom so skip the traditional approach. Some kids like to sit while some like to stand. If he likes to work on the floor, let him spread out and surround him will all the materials he needs. Go with what your child prefers as long as you provide him a study table for him to write and place his books. A beanbag is a great alternative for a desk chair. This will help your children feel comfy and snug.
• Say no to technology. As much as possible, keep his study area a mobile phone free zone. Do not let the buzz of notifications distract your child. If internet access is needed to complete a homework, supervise the usage of gadgets. If you cannot monitor him, you can install a software that blocks access to different websites and keep the allowed websites strictly school related. By the time he is older, he will be used to NOT depending on his phone or computer to complete his tasks. If he wants to manage his time well, you can provide an analog clock or an egg timer instead of handing him a phone.
  Install the proper lighting. When a room is too dim, this can contribute to declining energy levels. Moreover, too much artificial can be very unpleasant and harsh to the eyes. A table lamp is necessary for any desk or study space, no matter how old your kids are. It is important to choose a lamp that resembles natural light. Dr. Deborah Gilboa, an expert in youth development, shared the importance in finding the balance between using artificial light and natural light from the windows. If combined well, it will help your child stay attentive and focused.
• Provide a variety of time management tools. Procrastination is never a good habit. Do not encourage your child in creating piles of paperwork. Because when there’s just too much to do, he will get overwhelmed on what to prioritize first. Even if he will tell you that he knows where to start and where everything is, train him to use tools that promote good time management. For example, he can use a desk calendar to plan ahead and take note of impending deadlines. A clock can help him manage his allotted study time and avoid spending too much time on just one task. Decorate the room with an enormous calendar and magnetic bulletin board. This is to remind him about the important schedules and exam dates. To encourage him to do well, you can also hang on the bulletin the tests and quizzes that he perfected.
• A little clutter is okay. Yes, removing clutter can be calming, but for elementary students, they choose to display their art and crafts. Most kids would love to personalize their study space. Dr. Deborah Gilboa adds that young children can learn a valuable life skill when they choose to organize their own space. They will learn to put things away after they are done and this habit will teach them the importance of responsibility. To help them organize their things, provide a space or a shelf for them to keep their toys. Remind them to put their school supplies back in the drawer when they’re done using it. You can also provide colorful cups for them to store their pencils, markers, scissors, and other art materials.

At JAMS, we will help your child overcome the fear of numbers. Your child will become more confident and most importantly, he will gain an important lifelong skill. For more information, just visit JamsPortland.com to learn more about the teaching pillars of the abacus.