For as long as there remains a threat of mass infection from this or any other pandemic, children, teachers, and parents alike are required to adapt to different methods of learning. From smaller class sizes and mask requirements to hybrid and virtual learning, school systems and educators are engaging students with new rules and accommodations.

Whether your child is enrolled in a hybrid learning model or 100% virtual, it’s important to provide an at-home school space that is conducive to learning, concentration, and imagination. Here are a few expert tips to help you make the most of present circumstances.

Carve out a separate space. Children and adults alike often work best when they have a dedicated work area. This could be a quiet corner of a bedroom, a dedicated home-office, or even a kitchen table for little ones who may need closer parental supervision and involvement. Make sure the area is clean, quiet, clutter-free and with limited or no distractions.

Involve your kids in the process. Get your children excited by allowing them to play an active role in personalizing the space. Inspirational quotes, fun lighting, visual aids, an ergonomic chair in their favorite color are just a few ways to help your kids embrace their at-home learning space.

Take school outside. Spending time outside can improve creativity, relieve stress, and improve attention. So whenever possible, move the classroom outdoors to a patio table, blanket, or tent.

Keep siblings apart. Discourage distractions, arguments, and giggles by providing each child with their own workspace, even if in the same room. Use folding screens or dividers to carve out individual spaces, have one child work at the table while another is at the island, or have them work in shifts if their school schedules permit.

Establish and stick to a schedule. A fixed schedule lets kids know what is expected of them and helps them stay on task. Incorporate breaks for snacks, play, rest, and exercise.

Embrace differences. No two children learn the same, so be sure to allow room for flexibility. For example, your son may have no problem focusing at the dining room for an hour before needing a break. On the other hand, your daughter might require the calm and quiet of a closed-off space with more frequent breaks.

Let the light in. Natural light is proven to increase concentration and improve mood. If possible, set up your child’s work area near a window or skylight. Avoid windows that look out onto busy streets – these could prove to be a distraction.

As we’ve demonstrated, proper lighting is one of several keys to a conducive work and study environment. That’s where we can help. Excel Electric designs and installs lighting conducive to any task while enhancing the look and feel of your home. For more information and a free quote, contact us today.