Setting up kid's distance learning area at home during the quarantine
/Setting up the kid's distance learning area at home during the quarantine
Many of us are staying home for an extended time because of the pandemic. Business and schools are closed and kids are doing online learning at home. It becomes the parents’ job to make the process go smoothly. One way to ease the stress and confusion is to set up a proper area for study and video conference. We have some simple tips below to make your life easier.
The 2020 Feng Shui chart
The best area to set up an online learning station is one of the 4 corners according to the 2020 Flying Star feng shui chart. This year, the 4 corners are beneficial for intelligence, helpful relationship, and career luck. You can either set up space in one of the 4 corner rooms or set up a desk in one of the 4 corners of a convenient room.
Close to the computer, internet, and outlet
For distance learning, computer access and reliable internet are essential. It is nice to have an extra outlet nearby for all kinds of electronic devices and lighting. Some areas of the house might have a stronger signal of the internet than other areas. Or you can rearrange the internet setup so the connection is strong in the right location.
The location choice and privacy
Do you have more than one child and have different class meeting schedules? They can interfere with one another so it is better to have separate places. Kid’s bedroom is an obvious choice since you have more privacy and close to all the personal items. Public space such as living room, dining room, or kitchen can be a good choice too. Parents just need to be quiet during their online class meetings.
The proper size of furniture
For little kids, it is hard to find the right size of furniture for them. If it is uncomfortable or too comfortable, they might not focus on school work at all. The right height of the desk, chair, and computer setup can enhance the posture and increase the concentration.
Good lighting and no background noise
Either natural light from the window or artificial lighting can be helpful for the study and the health of eyesight. Lighting is also important for an online meeting so people can see you clearly.
Another factor we often forget is the noise. It can be from a fish tank, an air filter, a fan, or another person’s activity. The background noise can sound very loud during an online meeting or video recording.
Formal and informal learning areas
It is a good idea to have a formal desk area for online classroom meetings or writing homework, and another comfortable chair or sofa for casual reading and other activities. Little kids can not stay in one spot for too long. They can get cranky and whiny. It is better to have choices for them.
Organize and declutter
Kid’s homework can pile up quickly, and all the school supplies and books can get messy too. We have to come up with a system or central location to store and organize all the stuff.
It is a good idea to print out the schedule of the week so you can keep track of the meeting time and due date of homework. There is no one system that fits all for the organization. Kids should be involved in the process too.
A clean and clutter-free space can help concentration and productivity. It is about the habit of doing a little bit at a time for the maintenance of a clean space.
Flexibility
The last point is about being flexible. We are in an uncertain time. We have to adjust to each child and other family members. Everyone can compromise, adapt, and contribute to new solutions. It is not a time for perfection. It is more important to stay healthy and safe at home and help each other out.
A Feng Shui analysis and recommendations for January 2025.