3 Ways to Optimize a Remote Learning Space
With most schools moving at least some of their curriculum online, most parents have already helped their kids set up a remote learning space at home. Now that we’re a few months into the school year, you probably have a sense of whether or not your children’s remote learning space is working for them or if it needs tweaking. Here are 3 ways to optimize your child’s remote learning space.
Ask your kids. It may be tempting to set up a space for your child and then present it to them, but it is best to give them a say in the space’s design. If you have found that there are elements of your child’s space that are not working for them as well as hoped, don’t be afraid to change the space. The key is to set up the environment in a way that makes it easy for the child to learn. Having a separate space helps kids get into a different mindset so they can show up ready to focus, but the location of the space is very important. While some kids who are more easily distracted may prefer a desk in their room or space, most preschoolers and elementary-age children want to be where the action is – near you! If your child would prefer to be near you, consider setting them up at a designated table in the kitchen, family room, or another area near where you’ll be. Consider sharing your home office or work-from-home space. If you can find room in your home office, set up a desk or table specifically for remote learning, so your child has his/her own spot that is clear of your work materials.
Older, high school and college-aged kids will most likely want a space that is separate and quiet. If there is not ample space for them at home, consider renting a coworking space for them. Coworking space is available typically by the hour or as part of a monthly membership. The spaces are cleaned regularly and provide a quiet and novel space for test-taking, paper writing, and working on projects. The other big benefit of coworking spaces is that they are designed to minimize distractions making it easier for students to get papers, research, or other projects done in a timely fashion.
Keep it organized. No matter what age your children are, keeping their learning space organized is key. For younger kids, store papers and art supplies in bins in a nearby cabinet or on a shelf. Use labels or clear containers so your kids can keep up the sorting system easily on their own. Keep often-used items like pencils from a desktop organizer or buckets hanging from a rail above the desk.
Helpful add-ons. You undoubtedly remembered to buy regular school supplies, but remote learning requires other supplies. Noise cancelling headphones, an extra monitor for a computer, and a comfortable desk chair are not typical back to school supplies, but they can make all the difference to remote learners.
Coworking Station of Walpole offers fully furnished remote learning spaces to rent by the day, week, or month. Contact us at walpole@coworkingstation.com to hear about our special student rates.
