A Homework Space of One’s Own

Back to school is an adjustment for the whole family. As educators, we know how challenging it is for students to trade in flip-flops for homework. To help ease the transition, we encourage parents to establish an after-school routine and to carve out a special space at home just for homework

The key to any good homework space is to make it a consistent place. It can be the kitchen table or their own desk – just make sure that your kids know that when they sit down there, it’s time to focus on their work.

Workspace

• Keep the area clutter free. Just include a good reading light, some pens or pencils and a flat surface.
• Get a power strip and plug in power cords and chargers so there’s no scrambling when the batteries are low.
• Hang a calendar on the wall and write down project deadlines and important dates.
• Make sure there’s a clock easily visible to help stay on schedule.
• Dedicate a bookshelf or some bins to hold extra school supplies, textbooks, art supplies and computer paper.
• Display special papers and artwork on the wall for inspiration and motivation.

Once you’ve created a special place for homework, decide as a family when doing homework works best for you. Whether it’s right after school or not until after dinner, keep homework time consistent. That way, you will be able to get homework done and make time for other family activities.

 Amy Boyd, Director of Family Services and Federal Programs, joined CCA in 2007 and currently serves as the director of family services and federal programs. She has 19 years of experience in public education, and six years of experience in education leadership. Her career in education began as an elementary school teacher in Carlisle Area School District. She also served as a regional coordinator for federal programs at the Pennsylvania Department of Education before joining CCA. Mrs. Boyd received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Wilson College in Chambersburg, master’s degree in education administration and school principal certification from the University of Scranton. Mrs. Boyd currently is finishing a doctoral program at the George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where she will receive her terminal degree in education administration and policy studies. Her doctoral dissertation work and research interests focus on parent involvement and student achievement in a K-12 cyber school.

In her spare time, Mrs. Boyd enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and enjoying outdoor life on her family farm.