Cincinnati Family: 7 ways to create a better home-schooling environment

During the COVID-19 pandemic, parents of school-aged children are all taking on the challenging yet rewarding job of teaching from home. This territory — uncharted for many — is stressful to navigate, but definitely doable. Cincinnati Family consulted with Katherine Smith of the University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning to create a list of tips to help parents get the most out of non-traditional instruction while also maintaining a positive relationship with their kids. Smith's advice: Create a workspace.

At school, children have ownership within much of their daily routine. They sit at a desk and use a cubby or locker for their things. Smith, an instructor in DAAP's School of Art, says this helps kids learn organization and focus.

“When teachers are in the classroom, they work hard to organize the physical space of the room for different types of learning, various activities and efficient transitions of those activities and supplies,” she says.

At home, it is important for kids to feel like they have a place of their own while they are completing their school assignments.

“Parents can help their children carve out their own workspace that has a good work surface, lighting and a place for their supplies,” Smith says.

With the proper environment, kids may be ready and willing to start their school day at home. Read more.

Featured image at top: Student studies at home. Photo/Annie Spratt/Unsplash