The ideal would be to have a completely separate space for your classroom. A den or unused room will be perfect as a school. It helps to create the correct atmosphere. Children will associate this space with school activities and outside distractions, like a phone that rings would not be so disturbing.
Part of the fun of homeschooling is getting the classroom ready. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Sometimes a layer of paint and some colorful curtains would be enough. Ideally the child should have his or her own desk. If there is more than one child each should have a separate desk. This will immediately rule out fighting over space and stationery.
Space to pack books, files and other resources is essential to prevent chaos in the classroom. If there is more than one child it is advisable that each child has a drawer, box or any other storing space that belongs to him or her. With smaller children every pen and pencil and whatever else they use in the class should be identical and well marked. It still doesn’t guarantee that they won’t fight over it, but there is a better chance of peace if most things they work with are the same.
If you don’t have extra space for the classroom and have to work from the kitchen table or dining room, make sure that each child has a portable storage container for their books and other belongings. The alternative will be a chaotic kitchen or dining room and it will soon starts to irritate the rest of the household.
If your school is in a separate room a white board can be fixed against a wall so it doesn’t take up extra space. If you are going to move around with your school, a folding white board will be the best. Black boards and chalk are messy and should rather be avoided.
Give your school a name. It can be any creative name or simply uses the child’s name or surname. It creates an own identity for your school and the children will feel more part of the school culture and can identify with their friends in public and private schools.
Older children can help with ideas on how to decorate the classroom to turn it into their own special space.
