How to Create the Ultimate Back-to-School Homework Station

A top-notch education starts at home, and a dedicated homework area could help your kids complete their assignments efficiently and successfully-with the least amount of kicking and screaming. Whatever your space or budget limitations may be, any devoted space for study is better than sprawling out on the floor in front of the television. Not convinced? Build it-whether it's a nook in the kitchen or a room all its own-and the good grades will come. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind as you get started.-Tabitha Sukhai, This Old House online

See all our tips on how to outfit a kid's homework station at thisoldhouse.com!





1. Lay Out a Power Desk

A spacious, flat surface (desk or table) and a comfortable chair that suits your child's height will encourage neat handwriting. For desks, opt for a lamp with a built-in holder for pencils, scissors, and other supplies. A small bookcase or wall-mounted shelves preloaded with an atlas, dictionary, and thesaurus wouldn't hurt, either. If you have the wall space, hang a corkboard or inconspicuous magnet strips for posting those A+ exams and a calendar for keeping track of assignments, school events, and extracurricular activities. Mimicking this school feature is a fun way to put kids into student mode at home.

MORE: Keep It All Quiet on the Homework Front




2. Get Tech Savvy

Computers are a tremendous part of the educational process and many schools provide access to technology. But for homework, the Internet is a valuable research tool; giving your child access to a home machine will allow them to hone their typing and information retrieval skills. No matter what kind of computer you have in your home, make sure that the monitor is level with your child's head and that it sits 18 to 30 inches away from his or her face. Consider use of an antiglare screen film to prevent eyestrain, especially for older students who may need to work on longer assignments. Don't forget to provide a way for your child to back up his or her work, like a Web-based service (Google Docs) or a portable USB data-storage device.



MORE: Do Homework in Timed Heats




3. Make Like a Scout and Be Prepared

Even the most organized families fall victim to the forgotten, last-minute project every now and then, so keep extra poster board, construction paper, and a couple of shoeboxes for dioramas on hand. Store extra supplies in underbed storage bins so they'll be in pristine condition when they are needed-and out of the way when they're not.

MORE: Keep One Eye on the Screen








4. File It Away

A small filing system for school memos and graded papers, which should be kept until the end of the year, is something that many families overlook until there are stacks of papers on the kitchen table or counter. Decide whether a hanging file holder or an accordion file would help your youngster keep his or her work organized.

MORE: Stock Up on Supplies






See additional ideas for homework study areas at thisoldhouse.com


See more Kid Friendly Ideas:

13 Quick Fixes for Kid Clutter

Child Safety in the Home

Top 12 Kid-Friendly Kitchen Tools