Eight Homework Areas That Make Back-To-School Rock

 It's hard to believe school is back in session. Now is the time to set aside a special place for the kiddos to get their homework done in peace. Here are some ideas for making homework less of a chore and more of a joy.

• The breakfast table or dining table is a great place to designate as your official homework area. You can prepare dinner and keep your eyes on your little workers at the same time.

• An architectural nook set aside for after-school work. The space is differentiated with a different color paint than the rest of the room; it's a room within a room. 

• A large stair landing or an underutilized nook in your home can transform into the ideal homework area with a diner booth setup. A built-in bookcase is a perfect place for stashing a dictionary, a thesaurus and a good atlas. 

• A homework area build-out offers everything children need to get their work done: a writing surface, task lighting, a corkboard, closed storage and cushioned seating. 

• Do you have a spare closet that could be outfitted as a homework station? No mess, no fuss - just close the doors when the space is not in use.

• Maybe your kids are easily distracted? Provide each child with a place to get his or her work done, but face them in opposite directions. This setup keeps learners focused on their own homework, rather than being visually distracted by a sibling.

• Maybe you could pair your workspace with your child's homework space. Both of you can get a little work done, but you can still be on hand for assistance and make sure your pride and joy stays on task.

• Color and style make organization more attractive to children. Really! Cubbies, files and a place for their stashes make homework time and locating papers that need signing less of a burden. A simple bookcase in a corner of the kitchen or in your back hall could easily be converted to help school-goers stay organized.