Assemble a homework motivation station
Create a space for the student in your home
By Kama Lee Jackson
Homework is one of the unavoidable beasts of childhood. It is perhaps more intimidating than anything lurking under the bed.
Dr. Ester Cole, a Toronto psychologist and a former supervisor at the Toronto Board of Education (now the Toronto District School Board), says that no matter what city, province or country she’s speaking in, the subject of homework is always a top issue with parents. “They come to me and other psychologists to understand why [homework] becomes such a big stress factor.”
For starters, she explains, students need to know why homework is assigned. “If we, as adults, had to engage in an activity that we did not fully understand the purpose of, it would be very hard to be motivated.” Begin by asking your child’s teacher to explain the school’s homework policy; then explain to your child that homework is an extension of learning and will strengthen skills and knowledge.
Give “boring” a boost
Lisa Laronde, a mother of three in Newmarket, Ont., says her kids see homework as a drain on their downtime. “They spend all day in school. No one wants to spend more than one hour after school doing homework.”
While homework might never make your kids’ list of favourite activities, you can make it feel less like a chore by creating a space that is motivating, calming and, most importantly, especially for them.
When is the right age to set up a homework centre? Laronde suggests “the earlier, the better” to encourage great study habits from a young age. “I think Grade 2 — age seven or eight — is a good age,” she says.
Involve the kids
Your child’s personality will be the key to designing the entire space. Dr. Cole says that it’s important to involve children in creating the environment. Involve them in making choices: ask what artwork do they want on the wall, for example. Then kids know that adults are not taking over their space.
“Let your child participate in the design and colour of the workspace,” says Winnipeg designer and parent Stephen Lamoureux. “It will give them a sense of ownership.”
Find a proper space
The kitchen and den are high-traffic areas and are not ideal for setting up homework stations. “There’s nothing worse than watching or hearing kids playing and having fun while you are trying to get things done,” says Laronde.
In most homes, space is at a premium, says Sharon Hanby-Robie, an interior designer in Lancaster, Pa., and the author of the My Name Isn’t Martha (Pocket Books, 1998, 1999) home improvement and decorating books. “Try using the dead space at the end of a hallway,” she suggests. “It’s perfect for placing a homework centre.”
You might consider setting up a work area for your child within your home office. Sometimes a child’s bedroom is the most convenient place to start the setup — even with all the toys. You can use a screen or a curtain to separate the area and reduce distractions.
Set up the essentials
The basic must-haves of a homework centre are
- a computer
- ample work space
- good lighting
- a comfortable reading chair
- a child’s pencils, pens and art supplies
To maximize space, use tables that fold out from the wall or pivot out of the way, says Samantha Sannella, an instructor at Ryerson University’s School of Interior Design in Toronto. The computer monitor can also be placed on a unit that swings to the side to clear an area for writing or arts and crafts. If the centre will have multiple (and growing) users, both Sannella and Lamoureux suggest investing in ergonomic items, such as a height-adjustable chair, keyboard, monitor stand and mouse pad.
Inspire through décor
Lamoureux says there isn’t one particular colour scheme that will motivate all children. “Bright and vibrant colours can help stimulate development in some kids but become distracting to others,” he explains. “Same for subdued and calm spaces — some kids might need a Zen-like space so they can focus on the assignment. Basically you should know what works for your child and tailor the space to the individual.”
Sannella suggests using vibrant accents that can be updated as your child grows to give the area longevity. Consider letting children paint their own murals, or make the project a team effort. Hang your children’s framed artwork on the walls, suggests Laronde, or even some of their school assignments.
Get comfy
Create a reading area with pillows and carpeting that’s comfortable enough to sprawl out on. Sannella recommends picking up an overstuffed yard sale chair — perfect for curling up with a book. “Remove the legs and sew a slipcover and you have an instant retreat for reading. This is easy to change when [your child] grows older.”
Establish a homework system
An organized space keeps frustration levels low. Clear containers, stackable cubes and open shelving on the wall make it easy to find items without making a mess. Label storage space with words or icons so everything has a place.
“Just as in your home office, label an ‘in’ and ‘out’ box for homework assignments,” suggests Hanby-Robie. “This can make homework seem more important while providing a sense of accomplishment when they can finally place their work in the outbox!”
