Design Your Kids’ Study Spot

August 13, 2009 by Kenmore

A client recently asked me for advice on creatively planning a study spot for her 11- and 14-year-olds. I suggested bold furniture pieces and colors to inspire kids at homework time.

I also offered my friend these tips for creating décor that works for a variety of living spaces and ages.

For younger ones

  • A beanbag or comfortable chair can be a great spot to practice reading.
  • Wrap their room in colors that inspire learning and creativity. Funky desks, animal-print chairs and chalkboard painted walls make reading, writing and math exciting.
  • Paint one wall with magnetic paint and provide magnetic words and letters to encourage spelling and sentence building.
  • Decorating with world maps or images of the solar system adds creativity and works well with modern decor.

For teenagers

  • Teenagers need more desk space for homework. Invest in a desk, comfortable task chair and collapsible storage bins to hold paper, office supplies, books and other items.
  • Select famous quotes or favorite phrases and order them custom-made in vinyl wall decals.

Combined living spaces
When designing a bedroom/study space for two, allow each child to inspire the design and décor. School-aged children may need more desk space for homework, while younger kids may prefer a rug or rocker to practice reading. Designate an area for educational toys and games.

  • Maximize space by lofting beds to create two designated spaces – one for work and one for sleep.
  • Tuck the desk under the bed and keep this area free of distractions like television to help maintain focus.

Focus on mixing fun with function to create an environment that makes homework more enjoyable.

Does your family have a dedicated spot for study time?

Kenmore

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