Jealous of all those ‘crafty’ type people you see on Facebook or Pinterest? You may have even tried to make one of the “quick and easy” things you found online, but to no avail? You may even have friends who attended the recent Pinterest convention in town. When asked to go to, you bowed out gracefully, by lying and saying your mother-in-law was coming into town. You say you are ‘all thumbs’ and don’t have a crafty or creative bone in your body…Well, if this sounds like you, keep reading. We’ve found some tips and ideas to help organize your child’s study space that are literally fool proof. As a matter of fact, they are so easy, your Kindergartner can help you!

The first step in designing a student workspace is to take a few minutes and think about the child for whom you are making this. If the child is easily distracted, it is paramount you pick a more secluded or quiet spot. If he/she works better in groups, pick a corner of a room where your family normally gathers.

Next, think about the child’s size in relation to a flat, clutter free workspace area, and about comfortable seating. Have your child sit in the chair you’re going to use. If his/her feet don’t touch the ground, get a footstool or box so that they can have something stable on which to rest their feet. Finally, roll up an old towel or blanket and place it behind the child’s lower back to act as a lumbar support.

Secondly, if your child will be working at a computer, there are a few things to keep in mind. The monitor should be level with his/her head and placed directly in front, about 18-30 inches away. Make sure the computer they use is age-appropriate, as some younger children can still not manipulate a regular mouse and may need a trackball. Finally, use an anti-glare screen cover to avoid eye strain.Student workspace, organization for students

Now that we have the logistics taken care of, here’s where the creativity comes in. Start saving all your old cereal boxes and begin telling your friends and neighbors that you won a free craft session with Martha Stewart! Seriously, when you’re done with those boxes, it will totally fly. You can have your child help decorate the boxes, so that they are bright and inviting. Use contact paper, regular colored paper, ribbons, markers, etc. to transform the cereal boxes into brilliant organizers, folders and dividers.

In case you’re still not convinced you can do it yourself, you can always go online and order some items from an organizing store. This will cost you more money, but may be worth it, depending on your time limitations. Before you do that, take a look around your house, garage, or ‘play room’ for items that may help you organize, though. Out of sight, out of mind is a real condition. I’m betting you can find numerous items you’d forgotten about that can be put to good use.

Lastly, don’t let the task overwhelm you. There are no real ‘rights’ and ‘wrongs’ here. If you’re stuck and can’t think of anything to help, just hop on the internet and let your fingers do the work. In no time, you’ll be up and running with a functional and beautiful study space for your child.