Even though in many parts of the US remote learning is over, and children are physically going back to school, parents still need to be prepared in case their school is quarantined, or any other unforeseen circumstance opens again the possibility of going back to home school. In any case, conventional wisdom tells us that one of the most important things parents and caretakers can do is create a workspace that works for the student and is responsive to their needs. Creating a dedicated “homework” space, will not only help a kid focus on schoolwork, but can also help him/her to become more organized and feel better prepared for the future.
The focal point of any workspace is the desk, and obviously here we should start by considering the Age and Development of the Child, and the Work they are going to be doing in this space. Depending on this factor, their needs will change. The right desk can make the work go so much smoother. For example, a younger student will probably need more storage space for toys, crayons, markers, books, etc. while an older child will probably require a flat surface area for laptop and other electronics, and a power source to plug in all this equipment. But just because they are young, you should not discount their need for their own space. Even the youngest of learners need a place to do their work, and the earlier they learn, the better.
Size is an important factor too. For example: the desk in which a 9-year-old likes to work is a different size that what is used by a16 years old teenager. Some desks offer the possibility of “growing” with your child, as they can be adjusted to different height levels as needed. Choosing a desk that grows with your elementary school-aged child would be a wise investment. An adjustable desk with various height settings means that you will not have to replace the desk as your child’s needs change. This type of desk allows you to have three (3) different heights – 23 inches, 26, inches, and 28 inches. It can also be raised to become a standing desk. This is an excellent set-up for studying, reading, or doing homework. If you buy a desk that can grow with your child, they can have it from elementary school all the way through their teen years.
Location is also critical. If your child’s room is big enough, you can set his / her workspace in the bedroom, and this is probably the best choice. This not only provides privacy, but also keeps everything in a single place and easy to find when needed. However, many homes have limited space, and the desk would probably have to be placed alongside the rest of the furniture in the living room or family room, without sticking out like a sore thumb. If this is the case, then it is probably better to choose a desk that has a more discreet look, or perhaps a multi-purpose piece of furniture that can “transform” into a side table of a coffee table and can offer different functions at different times.
And of course, your Child’s Preferences cannot be ignored. After all, this area is specifically for him / her, and they should have a say, and depending on their age, they can even perhaps help to design or create their work area, not only the desk but everything around it. A personalized desk that has room for the things they need and like, can also be very inspiring. The colors, accessories and art should reflect their personality and make an environment conducive to learning.
Budget is no small consideration. Of course, we all want the best for our children, but sometimes the best does not have to be the most expensive. Here we are looking for pieces of furniture (desk, chair, storage) that are durable, sturdy, kid-proof (if possible), easy to clean and cost-effective. However, quality should not be sacrificed for low pricing, especially if you want to obtain high value and enjoy many years of use out of this furniture.
Storage can be a factor too. Storage needs change as children grow, but even for older kids, there is still the need for hideaway storage and cut outs for management of computer cords and cables. They may also need an ample surface area for laptops and iPads, screens, and other peripherals. Depending on their work, some students may need more storage space. In this case you can add some drawers and/or shelves.
As stated at the beginning, it all circles back to The Desk. For children of school age, it is especially important to choose a proper desk and chair. Kids today sit more than 10 hours a day, although the human body does not fit such a passive lifestyle. But children are particularly susceptible to long periods of sitting in the wrong position. Therefore, during their growing years children need to have furniture which can continuously adapt to their changing body needs. Good seating position is important for the proper development of the body. Well designed furniture should not allow children to sit bent forward. Feet should not hang in the air because the chair is too high. Also, it needs to provide enough legroom under the desk. The desk or table surface should be at least 60 cm. X 120 cm. The table should be 30 cm. away from the eyes of the child. Optimal height of the table can be adjusted, according to the child’s growth. Also, the ability to tilt the work board should give a good body position while typing.
For older kids and young adults, there are many different types of desks to choose from, depending on the type of work or activity to be done. We have the Pedestal Desk (a work surface supported by two pedestals), Writing Desk (leg desk), Return Desk (L-shaped desk), Drop Leaf Desk (convertible to side table), Computer Desk, and Stand-Up Desk (multiple heights), just to name a few. Each one can offer diverse features and advantages suited for all kinds of different requirements and needs.
And finally, we must consider The Chair. Choosing the right chair is very important, given that it is the essential companion to the perfect desk. A good chair should have leverage on the back and adjustment in height, to allow the legs while sitting, to be perpendicular in the knee. The chair should have wheels and offer the possibility of adjusting the height and depth of the seat to adapt to the body, and to enable movement allowing circulation. Support for the arms should also be at right angles. The work/study chair should also give the option to occasionally tilt and shift the position of the body, as it has been found that it is harmful to maintain the body in the same position for long periods of time.
We hope that our readers find this blog helpful and informative. Our company, Perfect Home Offices, offers a broad selection of fine office desks, chairs, accessories and other office products in different price ranges and styles to fit all budgets and lifestyles. If you have any questions, need additional information, or want to inquire about any of our products, please contact us at info@perfecthomeoffices.com or visit our website at www.perfecthomeoffices.com.
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