In the greater Sacramento area, this year’s back to school routine is in full swing. With the changes this year holds for families, it’s quite possible you’re already re-thinking how you set up distance learning at home. Whether you are looking for a way to make your virtual school more effective or you’re ready to create a completely new learning space at home, we’re here to help!
Here Are 5 Of The Best Ideas For Creating An Effective Distance Learning Space
1. Create a Designated Space
The best first step to create an effective space for distance learning is to utilize what you currently have. Take some time to think through some of the less used areas in your home that could be easily converted into a designated workspace. This does not have to be a large area.
Things to consider would be a corner of a room, a long hallway, breakfast or reading nook, or even a set apart space inside your own office. If you can’t create a designated space, then at least ensure that the area you are using (like the dining table) has all other materials cleared away. Keeping a designated space for learning will help your child to be able to switch into “school mode” more easily and also create those much-needed lines between school and home life.
2. Have All Of Your Child’s Supplies In One Place
By having all of your child’s supplies in one place, you can help eliminate distractions and frustration! Whether you use a simple student desk and place supplies in a drawer or if you have to get creative with bins, canisters, shelving, or even a backpack on the back of their chair your child will benefit by having all within reach. Some supplies to consider having in your designated distance learning space could be:
Pencils and Pens
Crayons or Markers
Paper, Notebooks, and Folders
Textbooks or Reading Books
Ruler, Compass, Protractor, Calculator
Computer, Webcam, or Mouse
3. Limit Distractions
If you are trying to create an effective distance learning space you will want to be intentional about limiting distractions. A clutter-free workspace is less distracting and a more inspirational environment. Have them turn off their phone or tablet, social media, and TV when they’re learning.
Music can often be a negotiable as some students actually concentrate better when they have music on. Just make sure that it is clear that they are actually benefitting from background music, not being distracted by it. There are some programs or chrome extensions out there to help with limiting distractions as well. Dewo and Self Control are two you can check out to get started.
4. Have Them Personalize Their Designated Space
Mental health and well-being are crucial to being a productive learner. Encourage your child to personalize their distance learning space by adding their own artwork, decorations, pictures, or anything else that might inspire and motivate them. Personalizing their own workspace can help lift them up and improve their general mental health and focus.
5. Lights, Camera, Action!
Another idea for creating an effective distance learning space it making sure all of your electronics are ready to go. Start with the lighting to make sure it’s bright. Add a LED lamp or light ring if it’s not. This will help with Zoom call clarity as well.
Make sure your computer, tablet, or Chromebook are charged, Zoom is downloaded and updated and, your wifi is strong. If it is not, you may want to consider an inexpensive booster or contact your internet provider to see if they offer one to you free of charge.
Lastly, it’s important to have a pair of headphones or earbuds. If you have more than one child distance learning this is a necessity, but it also is incredibly helpful to many kids as they listen to lessons and participate in Zoom calls.
So as you’re working through how to create (or re-create) a distance learning space at home, make sure you take into account these 5 things to help set your child up for a successful school year!
What Other Tips Do You Have For Setting Up An Effective Distance Learning Space For Your Kids?
Share them with us over on Facebook or Instagram!
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