" Homework is not done until your homework is in its proper folder or notebook, the folders and notebooks are packed into your backpack, and your backpack is on its launching pad. "
- Joyce Cooper-Kahn, Ph.D. and Laurie Dietzel, Ph.D. authors of Late, Lost, and Unprepared: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Children with Executive Functioning
Setting the Stage: Establish Routines and Schedules
Lighting: Good lighting is always important.
Seating: Good posture helps concentration. This isn’t to say that your child can’t slump into a beanbag chair to read a story, but for optimum attention to homework, a ‘desk’ chair or straight back chair at a table or desk works well. A comfortable chair with proper support is ideal.
Noise: It’s better if the study center is relatively quiet. If possible, it should be kept away from the distractions of siblings running by, TVs and radios blaring, parents conversing, etc. Although some children can do their homework amidst these distractions, they “…will be functioning at a level far below (their) potential just because of where (they) choose to study.” from Study Smarter, Not Harder by Kevin Paul.
Work Surface: A smooth tabletop or desktop is best suited for homework. They need enough cleared surface to land at least one open book at a time as well as their opened notebook.
Tip: When you find your child feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with a homework assignment or project, step back and look at their workspace. You may find that they need to clear their workspace to make more room for the relevant references and tools for the project and set aside unneeded items, books, supplies, and clutter.
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