Start the new school year on the right foot by creating a successful learning environment at home.
Educators for Ohio Connections Academy, a leading virtual public school, suggest the following steps to
ensure that the environment in which your child learns encourages productive study habits.
• Designate an "education space." Designate a room or table as your child’s learning space.
• Reduce clutter and get organized. Stacks of workbooks and papers make studying appear as a daunting
task. Use organizing supplies, such as folders, pencil holders, drawer organizers and file holders to
keep items contained and clutter-free.
• Keep things handy. Items regularly used should be close at hand. Less frequently used items should be
stored out of the way in a supply closet or drawer.
• Make it easy to find subject-related materials. Keep all items related to one subject together so that
the child can easily grab all materials when it’s time to study that subject. Consider pasting a chart
on the inside front cover of folders to track the amount of time spent studying for each subject, log
what chapters and assignments have been completed, and record what assignments need to be completed.
This will help organize educational materials and document learning accomplishments for the school year.
• Monitor noise levels. Phones, televisions and outside noises distract children and pull them out of
their studies – even if it is coming from another room. Encourage family and visitors to avoid
unnecessary interruptions, such as loud video games or conversations. Consider turning off or silencing
electronic devices that can interfere with concentration.
Establishing a study area in your home is a great project to do with your child, no matter his or her
age.
Involving your child in the project will teach him or her valuable organization skills and the importance
of productive study habits.
For more information about Ohio Connections Academy, visit ohioconnectionsacademy.com.
