5 Tips to Create an At-Home Learning or Work Space

by Corcoran McEnearney

The 2020 school year kicks off this month with a new item on the traditional school supplies list: an at-home learning space. With so many students learning from home or a hybrid of at-home and in-person, while parents and adults continue working from home, the divide between workspace and home space has become blurred. As we continue to be affected by the coronavirus pandemic this fall, McEnearney has come up with five tips to help your home become an environment that supports success, whether it be for school or work.

1. Create a clear, dedicated learning or workspace

You don’t need a whole separate office to create an effective workspace; in short, you can create a room within a room. Whether it’s a table in the guest room, cubby space under the stairs or a reconfigured hall closet, having a defined space where learning or working takes place can have an impact on focus.
If the dining room table now also functions as a school desk, then grab a tray or basket where you can store devices, papers and pencils once the day is over and replace them with your “regular” decor or dinner plates. Even if learning takes place in the kitchen, making it “over” at the end of the day will give everyone a satisfying feeling of completion and separation.

2. Get furniture that helps with work or school

Be it a streamlined desk with cork boards mounted on the wall displaying letters, numbers or maps, or a comfortable chair, having furniture that makes your 9-5 easier is important. For little ones who are new to online learning, try a pouf at the coffee table instead of a large desk and hard chair

3. If possible, position yourself or your little learner near a window

Natural light is key to improving the working environment. Situate your desk near a window instead of a corner. If you’re short on windows, then pick up a few plants to add around you.

4. Create inspirational surroundings

Whether it’s encouraging quotes or motivating photos, surround yourself with images that make your student want to “go” to school and stay committed to their studies. Also, consider adding a speaker and playing classical music.

5. For your own sanity, try not to combine work/school space with sleeping space

Sure your bed or the couch is bound to be more comfortable, but less conducive to work. Plus, no one wants a Zoom background with the headboard behind them. Do your best to separate your work or school space from your sleeping or lounging space.

If your home isn’t working for you or your family, then consider reaching out to your favorite McEnearney Associate to start the conversation on finding a new place that does.

Take a look at one of our earlier articles, “Is It a Home, or an Office, or a Classroom? YES!” for more on this topic.

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