Creating the space for home learning

Creating the ‘space’ to learn at home 

Depending on the space you have available, try and use the same consistent area that is set aside for learning. This helps associate the space with learning. Alternatively, you may need to adapt an area whenever learning is going to take place. You will also need to allow for the age and stage of the child. It doesn’t need to be elaborate so consider the following simple suggestions: 

Are you distracted? 

• Turn off the TV 
• Keep mobile phones and other devices away unless needed for learning 
• Minimise foot traffic and loud noises 
• For younger children, limit toys in the space 

Light Levels 

• Natural light is best 
• A desk lamp with adjustable brightness can help 
• Avoid shadows being cast over books, work pieces etc. 

Are you comfortable? 

• Not too warm, not too cold 
• Comfortable and supportive chair 
•  A different place to sit or stand for short periods to allow for changes in posture 

Are you organised? 

• Keep supplies and resources close by 
• Keep things organised in boxes or tubs 
• Labelling is a big help (using symbols or pictures if appropriate) 
• Tidy regularly, clutter can be distracting 

Let’s think tech

• Is everything charged? 
• Is your charger close by? 
• Are screens at the correct height? 
• Can you get online if needed? 
• Headphones can help block background noise and me be needed for online learning. 
• Is the number of apps and distractions on devices limited? 

Routine 

• Have a visual schedule that can be referred to. You could use a sequence of symbols, a written timetable or daily planner. 
• Use a clock or timer to keep a track of when different activities take place and how long they are planned to last. 
• Think about using egg timers, stopwatches or even the length of time it takes a song to play