How to Creating a Good Study Environment

Once the first homework assignments start in elementary school, you won't likely see a break until graduation. Creating a study space at home allows your child to tackle all of his homework as efficiently as possible. An effective study area provides enough space to work, encourages concentration and allows easy access to materials. The way you configure the space and meet those needs depends on your child's study habits and the available resources. With creativity and your child's input, you can create a home base for all study activities.

Things You'll Need

  • Desk
  • Lamp
  • School supplies
  • Bulletin board
  • Calendar
  • File drawers

Instructions

    • 1

      Scope out areas for the study spot. A common area of the house gives you a chance to monitor and help with homework, but lots of activity in those areas may distract your child. Consider a quiet corner of the family room. If your child prefers more privacy and can handle less supervision, set up the study space in his bedroom.

    • 2

      Add a work surface to the homework spot. Use an existing surface, such as the kitchen table, counter or a desk, if it allows enough work space. Studying often requires a textbook, notebook and smaller materials, so you'll need space for all of it. Install a desk if you don't already have a suitable work surface. Scholastic recommends a work surface set at about waist height for comfort and ease of use.

    • 3

      Set up a computer with Internet access in or near the study area if your child needs it for homework or research purposes. While electronics are generally considered a distraction, some teachers put assignments online or assign projects that require Internet searches. Monitoring your child's study sessions allows you to ensure the computer becomes a learning tool and not a distraction.

    • 4

      Check the light levels in the study space. A nearby window may provide plenty of light during the day, but that won't help if your child studies into the evening hours. If the overhead light doesn't fully light the surface, add a desk lamp that illuminates the work surface.

    • 5

      Stock the study space with all of the supplies your child needs on a regular basis, including pencils, erasers, paper, scissors and glue. Older students may need highlighters, sticky notes, rulers and calculators. Keep the materials organized in the desk drawers or in containers on top of the desk. This makes the items easy to find so your child doesn't waste study time.

    • 6

      Add organizational tools to the homework area. A bulletin board allows your child to post notes or important materials. A calendar helps you and your child plan study time based on upcoming tests and project due dates. File drawers provide a spot to keep review sheets, old tests and other materials to use as references for future assignments.

    • 7

      Set ground rules for study time to help your child focus. Examples include no TV, phones or Web surfing in the study zone. Quiet music in the background is an option if it doesn't distract your child while studying.

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