Recent changes in our world has led to a rise in students participating in distance learning — whether through virtual school programs offered by school districts or parents taking on the challenge themselves. That’s why this month at John McClain Design we’re offering parents some back-to-school home hacks to give you an edge on tackling this new school year! When it comes to keeping your home back-to-school ready, we’ve kept it simple by following the acronym “B.A.C.K.”

Blackboard Basics.

Coating walls with chalkboard paint rather than buying a bulky blackboard is not only efficient and space saving but also aesthetically pleasing. Chalkboard paint comes in a variety of colors and some even come with a magnetic feature, perfect for assignments and showcasing artwork. Not too keen on the blackboard look? Try a dry erase sheet for your table instead. Either style results in a decrease in paper use — a perk for the environment as well as your wallet!

A Designated Learning Area.

A designated learning area helps not only keep distractions to a minimum but also with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Associating rooms designed for rest and relaxation, like your bedroom, with work is a big no-no for your brain. To put together a proper designated learning area include essential items such as a writing surface, chairs and appropriate lighting; as well as a separate large area for arts and crafts! A folding table can do wonders for this so that your children’s artwork doesn’t end up scattered across the dinner table. Bonus: You can fold it and store away or even take it outside for outdoor learning.

Comfy Corners.

What’s more fun than getting to be creative in your own comfy corner? Whether it’s an already established reading nook or a fort made out of cushions and linens, enlisting the help of your children in designing their own special book nook is a great way to get them excited about reading. Bean bags, whimsical pillows and snug rugs are all accessories kids love to pick out. Who says school can’t be fun?!

Keep Organized & Fully Stocked.

You don’t want a crucial learning moment to be stifled by a lack of stationery and supplies. Make sure you’ve got plenty of supplies like paper, pens, pencils, folders and notebooks. Keeping materials stocked doesn’t have to be boring! Think of fun new ways to store items that both you and your children will enjoy experimenting with. For example: Refurbishing an old bookshelf or decorating old mason jars with paint to hold writing utensils. Color coding magazine files for assignment storage by subject is another fun hack! If you love the minimal look of your home, take advantage of the mobility of a storage cart which is ideal for easily rolling away items when school is out of session.

Here’s to putting the B.A.C.K. in “Back to School” and wishing you a truly successful school year! 

Till next time…
Happy Designs!