A space of your own
Depending on where you live, you’re probably either getting ready to go back to a school building or getting ready to start learning online. You might be excited about that, or you might be feeling a little nervous about going back to school without actually being able to go back to school. No matter what your situation, you need a spot at home to help you concentrate on your work, and luckily, we have some suggestions on how to make it easier.
Create a space
If you have a desk, that’s great, but if not, you can make a space for learning just about anywhere. First, find a place where you can have a little quiet and where you have space to put all the supplies you need. Your kitchen table might be a good spot, or you might prefer working in a clean corner of your bedroom.
If you don’t have a desk, gather up all the supplies you’ll need every day (pencils, scissors, calculator, etc.) and keep them in a shoebox or small plastic bin. That way, you’ll always have the necessities handy.
Stick to a routine
It might seem like fun to stay in your pajamas all day and eat lunch at 10:30 in the morning since you’re not going anywhere, but most people do their best when they have a regular routine. So get up at the same time every day, get dressed and don’t forget to brush those teeth before you start your school day.
Stay in touch
Some people love learning online, and some don’t. For some it’s easy, and for others it’s harder. Some people like tools like Zoom, where you can see each other’s faces and say hello, and others don’t. If you’re having trouble completing your work or adapting to this new way of learning, talk with your parents or teacher. Chances are they’re just as frustrated as you are, and together you can work out a plan to make things better.
Learn what you like, how you like
OK, so you can’t get out of math or gym or whatever your least favorite class is. And playing Nintendo Switch all day isn’t going to get you a good grade on any tests (unless you go to a really awesome school with a Switch class!). But you might be able to find a new way to enjoy learning. If your assignment is to read a book of your own choice, choose one you love. If your gym teacher tells you to get outside for 30 minutes of physical activity, play basketball with a sibling or go for a bike ride. You can learn about science by helping prepare dinner. When you’re learning at home, you might have more flexibility to pick the activities you most want to do. Your teachers need you to do your schoolwork, but they mostly want you to learn, so try to figure out what’s most exciting for you and learn that way.