The Parent Home Educator Series: Tips for Learning at Home

Creating An Optimal Learning Environment in Your Home

By Dr. NNeka Allen-Harrison | Co-founder | July 10, 2020

This Parent Home Educator Series focuses on helping you develop a framework and decision-making process for homeschooling or supporting your child while learning at home.

Designate Space

The first thing to consider is a designated location in your home. Your child must have space to learn. The size of the area is not as important as the need for space. Whether you live in a one-room apartment or a multi-family home, you can do this. 

Limited Space

If your home is small and space is limited, be creative. Prepare to develop a new skill set--you will learn how to stage and tear down a room in minutes. Consider using a kitchen table as a desk, purchase or use a folding table, and order a portable whiteboard. When formalized learning ends for the day, ask your child to help you put things away.

Next, choose a designated area on your walls to display inspirational messages and assignments. Your walls should become a gallery for your child’s work. Children flourish at home when we reciprocate their excitement about having mommy and (or) daddy as their teacher.

Larger Space

If you live in a larger space, consider converting your dining room or extra bedroom into a learning center for the entire family. Creating a learning environment in your home cultivates the value of education. When your child observes other family members utilizing the room for learning, it normalizes the new environment for your child. Post educational and inspirational posters on the walls as well as art and assignments.

Celebrate The Transition

Invite your child into the process of decorating the walls or learning area. Have snacks and refreshments. Make it a celebratory transitional moment your child will remember. Consider inviting extended family to an unveiling virtual celebration after your decorating is complete.

Be Transparent

Get to the heart of the matter. Do not send the false notion that you are superhuman. You may feel a bit of disequilibrium at the moment--this is perfectly normal. After taking a moment to pause and center yourself, sit down with your child, acknowledge the circumstances, let them know you do not have all the answers, and you will learn together.

This approach accomplishes five things: it frees you from the guilt of feeling bewildered, reveals your humanity, cultivates resilience, fosters a sense of agency as your child assumes ownership of the learning process, and creates opportunities for strengthening relational bonds in the home.

Multi-family Households: Hold A Family Conference

Lastly, hold a family meeting to build a cooperative environment. This new endeavor may be an adjustment for some members of your household and necessitates conversation to avoid misunderstandings. To do this successfully, you need the cooperation of everyone in the home. Discuss the changes in your child’s education, the support you need, and how you will move forward. Be patient and enjoy the journey!