Creating a Space Where Your Child Can Thrive and Learn.

Luisa
Aug 12, 2020
3 min read

Updated: Jul 13, 2021

In a recent post, I briefly talked about this idea, from James Clear’s book “Atomic Habits,” that cues in our space can have a positive or negative effect on our subconscious decisions (i.e. habits). In other words, our environment is either helping or harming how we do life. Thus, it’s important that we live and work in places that inspire us and spark joy.

Since many children will be taking some of their classes virtually this semester, let’s apply this concept to designing a learning space that will set positive cues to nurture creativity and ingenuity.

✨There are three things you should focus on when creating this space:

1️⃣ Natural Light

2️⃣ Designate a specific space for learning

3️⃣ Organized & accessible tools

✨Natural Light (Or a well-lit place)

Light is so important when considering a space to study or learn. Several studies have demonstrably shown that when an environment is well lit, children (and all of us) are much more productive. In fact, one study found that workers in daylit office environments reported an 84 percent decrease in symptoms of eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision symptoms, which can detract from productivity. Conversely, those with well-lit places feel more energy and focus.

So, here are some tips on how to achieve a bright environment:

☀️ Place a desk near the window and ensure that the blinds are open to

increase the light that comes into the room.

☀️ Use a table lamp or a floor lamp. This will be beneficial if you are not able to

have the desk near a window or when it's cloudy or rainy.

Here are some great lightbulbs that will enhance the lighting in your area.

☀️ Add mirrors to help reflect the light and to make the space look bigger!

✨Designate a Specific Area for Learning

Find a spot in your house that works for YOUR FAMILY! This may be your child's bedroom, the loft, the guest bedroom or office. The ultimate goal here is to find a place where your kids can focus on their work and not be distracted by toys, media, or other distractions. Once you’ve designated the space for learning, be consistent with it. Here are some good questions when considering a space for your child:

❓Where in my house will my child have the least amount of distractions?

❓How much support will he/she need throughout the day? (This can help

determine how near or far he/she is from you )

❓ If you have multiple children-would it be better for all of them to be in one area?

Once you have an idea of where to create this space for your child, you can begin to create the space that they need to thrive!

▫️ Have a comfortable chair where they can sit.

▫️ Create the ambiance

📌 A nice scent helps create the ambiance of any space. I prefer a diffuser to use

blends that help focus and concentration.

Here are a couple of blends that enhance learning.

📌 Incorporate music- classical music or instrumental soundtracks

📌 Display some encouraging quotes or Bible verses to inspire you child. There

are so many great freebies at https://www.teacherspayteachers.com

📌 Include age-appropriate tools for learning (ABC Chart, Visible Schedule,

Accessible tools). We will dig into this a little more below.

📌Make sure you create and implement systems of organization to maintain a

clean and orderly space

📌Make sure their space is not overly stimulating and distracting (This all

depends on your child)

✨Keep Learning Tools Organized and Accessible

Having a cabinet or a rolling cart with the necessary learning tools accessible is extremely important. This will save so much time from having to go around the house to look for a sharpener or a ruler, as examples. When you plan ahead and gather the needed items into one place, you will help set your children up for success and they’ll be less distracted.

📓 Tools boxes should include:

📎 Paper

📎 Construction Paper

📎 Pens, Color Pencils, erasers, crayons,

📎 Stapler, hole puncher, paper clips, tape, scissors ( a couple), glue and glue sticks.

📎 Dry erase markers, (old socks for erasers)

📎 Manila Folders, Post-Its (different sizes), Calculators

📎 Invest in a quality printer.

** Disclaimer: Depending on how old your child is you can have these items out for them to use freely or in a space where they are accessible for you only.

📓 Make sure you also have a clock for them to use- preferably not a phone.

📓 Post daily schedule and make sure its visible at all times.

An organized, intentional, and well-lit learning space can positively impact your child’s learning and empower them to be most successful. Of course, if you would like to save some time and potentially a headache, we’d love to partner with you to create the space your child needs to thrive in this new school year. Please message us if you’re interested in learning more.

Love Always,