homework station ideas

How To Create The Ultimate Homework Station (So You’ll Never Have To Ask “Is Your Homework Done?” Ever Again)

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Homework can be the bane of the school year and can often be the source of much drama in the household. “Where is my notebook?” “Have you seen my backpack?” and of course the often-used “Is your homework done?!”

Instead of playing into the drama, why not make your home set-up a point of calm amongst the chaos, and set your children up for success by creating (or updating) an incredible homework station.

Teaching your kids how to keep themselves organized is such an important skill. Tasks such as time management, tidying workspaces, and project preparation will not only help them with school work, but also with life and the challenges it brings as they continue to learn and grow.

As organizers, we have used these tips to create homework stations for elementary school aged children onwards and they can easily be applied to families looking to refresh their existing systems for kids of any age.

And big bonus – your kids will love their new work space so much, they may actually be excited to do their homework!

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FIND THE SPACE

First things first, you’ll need to find a room or space in your home that works for your child. Depending on their age and how much assistance they require, this spot could be in a communal room (think kitchen or family room) or at a desk in their own room.

The ultimate goal is to get them working in a proper set-up with a table and chair instead of working from their lap – this way they establish good habits, can properly work on their handwriting and have room to spread out all their materials.

To spark your creative juices, we’ve pulled  30 of our favorite homework station examples  to serve as inspiration:

• Dual Desks from  @littlelibertyrooms
• Fold Down Desk via  This Old House
• Rustic 3-Desk Set-Up via  Postbox Designs
• Closet Transformation from  This Old House
• Homework Station for 4 via  Householdno6.
• Modern Loft Study Area via  Houzz
• Display Wall Station via  Houzz
• Dual Closet Homework Station via  Houzz
• Hallway Station via  Jen Hannotte for Houzz

• 2 Desk Work Station via  Better Homes & Gardens
• Double Sided Desk from  Better Homes & Gardens
• Closet Study Area via  iheartorganizing
• Family Room Homework Space via  Better Homes & Gardens
• Classic Desks via  Classy Clutter
• Walk-in Closet Transformation via  Petite Party Studio
• Kids Homework Station via  Clean and Scentsible
• Freestanding Table via  Houzz
• Colorful Workstation for Four via  Houzz
• Study Nook from  @littlelibertyrooms

• Chalkboard Wall via  Houzz
• Station Under the Stairs via  Houzz
• Hallway Homework Station from  @ninaandcecilia
• Double Desk Space from  @littlelibertyrooms
• Hanging Chair Hideout via  Houzz
• PBTeen Sleep & Study Loft Bed
• DIY Kids Art & Homework Station via  Craft-O-Maniac
• Tri Station via  Juvenile Hall Design
• Pull-Down Hallway Station from  Sand and Sisal
• Homework Nook with Chalkboard via  By Dawn Nicole
• DIY Homework Station from  Tatertots & Jello

Now, if finding a dedicated desk space isn’t possible, consider making your own mobile supply station that can be easily moved in and out of the space (like the kitchen table) when it’s homework time.

We love these smart DIY ideas for a portable study station:

• Dollar Store Portable Homework Caddy via  Simple Made Pretty
• Mobile Homework Station Cart from  Design Improvised
• Ikea Raskog Homework Station via  Smashed Peas and Carrots
• DIY Organizer from  Sprinkle Some Fun
• Homework Study Station via  Mom Advice
• Side of Fridge Storage via  the 36 th  Avenue
• DIY Homework Station Turntable from  Mom On Timeout
• Over the Door Organizer from  A Bowl Full of Lemons
• Freestanding Homework Station via  Simply Organized
• DIY Cutlery & Canning Jar Caddy via  Clean Mama

MAKE IT COMFORTABLE + FUNCTIONAL

Select a good desk chair that is both comfy and supportive. You don’t want a chair to be the reason that your kids are gravitating to doing their homework on the couch!

A few of our all-time favorite options:

• PBTeen Ergo Chair
• Land of Nod Class Act Mint & Gold Desk Chair
• Land of Nod Toto Desk Chair
• PBTeen Emily & Meritt Bed of Roses Airgo Chair
• PBTeen Rockin’ Roller Desk Chair
• Walmart Kids Retro Molded Chair
• Home Depot Modway Edge Office Chair
• PBTeen Northfield Wingback Chair
• Walmart Urban Shop Swivel Mesh Chair

Although it may seem obvious, having a  trash/recycle can  near their desk will encourage them to not only throw out their old papers, but also (perhaps with a little coaxing), to purge the garbage from their backpacks on a regular basis.

GET IT ORGANIZED

Wall Organization

Hang up a cork, magnetic or pin board for your kids to put papers, reminders and a calendar. This is a space that should be within reach of their desk so they can easily add/remove important items on a regular basis. It can also give them a chance to decorate and personalize their space – hopefully inspiring them to actually use it!

There are so many amazing wall organizing systems available – take a look at some of these incredible ideas:

• PBTeen Cubby System Pinboard
• PBKids Build Your Own Modern Gabrielle System
• Land of Nod Stick With Me Magnet Bar
• Land of Nod Cloud Corkboard
• Target Bulletin Board with Chalkboard & Hooks
• Umbra Trigon Bulletin Board
• Sweet Jojo Designs Pinboard
• PBTeen Dot Pin-It Pinboard
• Land of Nod Beaumont White Shelving System
• Land of Nod Colorblock Corkboard Letters
• PBKids Butterfly Shaped Pinboard

DESK ORGANIZATION

Having supplies within reach of the workspace is key to their productivity (there needn’t be twelve trips around the house looking for the tools they need to complete each project!).

If there’s room on their workspace, consider keeping their supplies neatly organized in one of these nifty containers:

• Land of Nod I Could’ve Bin a Things Bin
• PBKids Rainbow Shaped Pencil Holder
• PBKids Candy Canisters
• Land of Nod Perfect Pitch Storage Caddy
• Lani Ang 4-Grid Desktop Organizer
• PBKids Printed Metal Lazy Susans
• Container Store Acrylic Accessory Drawers
• Land of Nod Multicolor Desk Accessories  
• Target Room Essentials Desktop Storage Unit

A version of these supply caddies can also be made for the road as there are often times that your child won’t be home when it comes time for homework (ie. at a sibling’s after-school sporting event!). Capitalize on that travel and waiting time with a to-go bag of their most needed supplies. We especially love  this portable storage one .

Make cleanup easier on everyone by using labels on your supply containers/caddy. This will help teach your children how to maintain their space and hopefully put an end to the continuing cycle of them asking where to put things when they are cleaning up.

We love  this no-fuss, inexpensive labeler  and also check out  these cool reusable chalk board labels .

As your kids get older, homework will often require the use of technology, which means cord and charging chaos! Keep their space tidy from the cord clutter by using some of these ingenious products and hacks to help cables stay neat and handy for when it’s time to plug in and charge.

• Cable Sleeve
• Container Store  Cable Twisters
• Cable Management Box
• Cable Catch

ESTABLISH GOOD HABITS

Time Management

Give them the tools to manage their own time  by keeping a clock or timer at their workspace . Setting time limits for each subject can help them stay on track and is a life skill that will bode them well in life after school.

If you haven’t heard of  the Time Timer  before, it is an ingenious tool that visually shows your child how much time they have left for a certain task. It is easy for them to set themselves, and they don’t need to know how to read a clock in order to understand the concept of time diminishing.

Subject Management

Help keep your child’s different subjects organized with  color-coded file folders  (1) — for instance, green for science, blue for english, etc. — so they can keep their notes organized on their desk and in their book bag.

A  simple file folder organizer  can help keep their most important documents at arm’s reach ( this one  (2) even has some extra storage underneath!). If there’s not enough room on your desk for one, try  this nifty cascade folder  (3) that you can hang on the wall when working, and collapse and bring with you on-the-go!

In/Out Parent Bins

There’s always a plethora of school paperwork and updates that need to get safely into your hands. Consider setting up some  in and out bins  where your kids can drop off any papers that need to be signed or seen by a parent. You can then go through them each night, and put any that need to be returned to school in the “out” bin, ready for them to pick up in the morning and pack in their backpacks. With a little practice, this can be an extremely effective method that can be used all the way through high school!

It is vital for older children to start learning how to manage their own calendar. Whether it’s a  desktop planner , or a  large dry-erase calendar  that can hang on the wall, it’s a great way for them to visually see what tests and assignments are coming up, so they can manage their time accordingly.

Form a Routine

Now you’ve got their work space expertly organized, help your child form a routine of  when  they do their homework. It could be as soon as they come home after a snack, after ½ an hour of “down” time or after dinner. Whatever you decide, help them stick to their routine for the first few weeks by setting a timer or providing gentle guidance. Hopefully with their new homework station in place, they’ll feel a real sense of ownership and be excited to get down to work!

After their homework is complete, consider helping them put a routine in place that will help make the morning rush less hectic. It could be as simple as establishing a nightly backpack check ensuring that all the books and papers needed for the next day are all packed away. Or having them place their packed backpack in a designated space (preferably near the door!) so there isn’t a mad scramble to find it in the morning.

RELATED:  For more smart tips and hacks for smooth morning routines see our popular post:  67 Life Changing Organization Tips & Hacks For Stress-Free Mornings

So there you have it mamas, tons of tips and inspiration to create the ultimate Homework Station. We wish you much success in the homework drama and hope you’ll never have to ask “is your homework done?” ever again!

Pssst – before you go, we’d love to have you  join our What Moms Love community  and we’ll hook you up with all of our exclusive resources including our popular  10 Screen-Free Toys For Guaranteed Quiet Time  (this is seriously a game changer mamas!),  Holiday/Birthday Coupon Book for Kid s  and  35 Food Subs & Swaps for Healthy Family Meals . Just let us know where to send all your goodies!

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MICHELLE HALE & ANNIE DRADDY

About The Authors:

Michelle and Annie are co-founders of  Henry & Higby , a professional organizing company in New York City. They believe that life should be as simple as possible and that the process of getting organized can help.

If you need help organizing your life & home, contact them at  [email protected]

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Wow, these homework stations are amazing! Almost too pretty to work at. Haha. I like the wall organization ideas the most. Always good to get stuff up and off the desk!

Wow, this post is pack full of good ideas! I think it is so important to have a fun, bright station that get kids actually excited to do their homework! Beautiful post.

So much inspiration here!!! My oldest just started kindergarten but I want to have good habits established early and these ideas are great!

These are amazing ideas!! I’m saving for the future

Always such helpful posts! Thank you!

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Published: Aug 5, 2021 · Modified: Aug 28, 2021 by Rachel

30+ Homework Station Ideas for Kids and Teens

Ready to make your family’s after-school or home school routine a bit less stressful? An organized homework station is the answer! I’ve included easy tips for small spaces and multiple kids so everyone can have a quiet, supervised space to study.

Table of Contents

It’s back to school time again and along with that comes a flood of emotion. While its sad to see our babies growing up, my inner organizing dork gets a boost of excitement. Create a cheerful space with these homework station ideas to inspire learning, even if you’re short on space!

A homework station is an inviting area that is dedicated to learning, homework, and informal learning like arts and crafts project. Although the kitchen table will suffice for a quick review or a worksheet, we’ve found it’s nice to have a homework zone where school supplies, books, and school calendars can have a dedicated place of their own. This cuts back on clutter and distractions.

I was inspired to write this post because of what I’ve learned from our frustrations with my son’s severe ADHD. At first, homework hour was a stressful experience full of tears (mine), yelling and every possible distraction under the sun. No exaggeration – 20 minutes of homework regularly took almost 2 hours. The material was never the issue. Home school moms, you have my admiration!

That’s where a dedicated space and equitable ground rules saved the day (and my sanity!)

How To Setup a Homework Station

I’ve learned a lot over several incarnations of our homework space. Creating a basic homework station area is simple and effective with these tips below:

• Choose a quiet area. The biggest chance of success is to limit distractions. Preferably with a handy outlet for a laptop, or charging accessories like headphones. For my son, I find that headphones with music (on loop) works wonders.
• Stock it with necessities. My son is the king of wasting time looking for misplaced items. Before official homework time, I ask if he has everything he needs to minimize the chances of him getting up from the desk.
• Set a routine. Same time + Same space = Success. I personally give my son a short break after school before we get down to business.
• Keep ’em close. While we must balance distractions, young children especially need supervision and usually help.
• Minimize your own distractions. When my son was in elementary school, I couldn’t continue working from home during homework time. It wasn’t fair to ask him to stay focused, when I myself wasn’t focused on his questions. So I placed a tiny desk in our kitchen. That way I had both eyes on him while I washed dishes or prepped dinner. I was available, yet still productive.

Homework Station Supplies

Below is a handy list of supplies that are sometimes useful.

• Pens and pencils
• Loose leaf paper for scratch paper or notes
• A timer or clock
• A folder with pockets
• 1 box of color pencils or crayons
• Computer and charger
• A planner (checklists are the lifeblood of this house!)
• Craft supplies as necessary – glue sticks and scissors are examples
• A comfy chair

Homework Station Setup Ideas

Finding the right space is often the most challenging part! I’ve included some inspirational ideas below to get focused. You don’t need to have an elaborate space, but these are great jumping off points to inspire your creativity.

Nooks & Crannies

While most of us don’t have room for a dedicated office, there’s usually space to spare like under the staircase, an unused closet, or an awkward alcove . These centrally located spaces are often quiet and can be quite magical.

A small closet can be transformed into a useful desk space. Source: This Old House.

The unused space underneath a staircase like this desk is also perfect for using as a small homework station. This design utilizes fun lines and strokes to make it visually interesting.

Homework Stations that Foster Creativity

I honestly believe that adding a little creativity to the space fosters the desire to learn and leads to great ideas. Classrooms are full of stimulating decorations for a reason.

Here’s a few creative concepts to enhance your learning environment:

Inspirational quotes on a paintable chalkboard from Dawn Nicole add a touch of whimsy and keep students motivated during tough assignments.

A simple wall Children’s art display like the desk above allows kids to hang their accomplishments and past artwork.

Add a splash of color or maybe some wall flash cards.

While these beautiful spaces are awesome, sometimes we just need a simple option like this portable homework station .

More portable homework station ideas :

• Use a bath caddy to hold supplies so you can grab and go.
• A tiny desk and rolling cart makes it easy to move supplies where you need them, when you need them.
• I love my car seat organizer for homework on-the-go. It’s a lifesaver when I have to run errands.
• This fold away desk vault in a box is brilliant!

Room for Two (or more)

If you have more than one child, figure out how they learn best. Do they prefer to  study  together? Try setting up the desk so it can accommodate everyone. A collaborative study area is less isolating.

I’m a big fan of this option . Everyone has dedicated space and no one is encroaching on the other’s turf.

This desk utilizes a stacking bookshelf to create two separate work areas and provide ample storage for each user. To save space, you could also have the desks face each other with the bookshelf between them.

This study zone melds learning and fun. It’s an especially fantastic space for large families. The multi-functional area can accommodate everything from homework, to art projects, and amazing Lego builds.

During my own work hours, I share a space with my son. Our craft room makeover project had to include key elements like tandem workspaces, ample organization elements and creative ways to display our greatest hits!

PRO TIP: Peg Boards are excellent additions to any Homework Station. They allow you to customize your storage and wall display without limits. Here’s how we built a DIY pegboard organizer.

Space Saving Solutions

House a homework nook in even the tiniest space. These space saving desks are brilliant!

Wall Mounted Desk

Ladder Shelf

Wall mounted

Space Saving Shelf Desk

Do you have a dedicated studying area in your home? What’s your top tip for handling the daily homework assignments?

More Ideas You May Enjoy

PS I love seeing your creations! Be sure to take a photo and tag  #cravingcreative  on Instagram ! You can also  stay in touch with me through following me on  Instagram ,  Pinterest , and subscribing to the newsletter!

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August 31, 2015 at 11:36 pm

Meredith @ The Palette Muse says

August 31, 2015 at 10:42 pm

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27 Inspirational Homework Areas and Study Stations

Steal ideas from these amazing home office spaces and watch the good grades roll in this semester.

A dedicated space for homework and studying can improve a child’s focus and productivity. Whether you have a large home or a compact apartment, there numerous ways to design an inspiring homework area.

To help you design your own space, we’ll explore 27 creative and functional study station ideas for a variety of needs and spaces.

1. Adjacent Homework Station

Setting up a homework station adjacent to the kitchen allows for independent work while keeping kids close enough for supervision or assistance when needed. The proximity to the kitchen also provides easy access to snacks, fueling those long study sessions.

A bright and lively space can stimulate creativity and encourage learning. To create an inviting atmosphere, opt for vibrant colors like the cheerful yellow cabinets shown here.

2. Storage-Loaded Homework Alcove

A built-in homework alcove can be great in kids’ rooms. Use stock lumber, storage bins, and sliding tracks to create a compact yet functional workspace. This design not only provides ample storage for school supplies and books but also allows for a retractable work surface, making it ideal for rooms where space is limited.

3. Creative Closet Space

Repurposing an underused closet can yield a charming and practical homework nook. Remove the closet doors and line the walls with a fun, eye-catching pattern to transform the space. Involve your child in the design process to make the area appeal to their wants. While their ideas might differ from yours, incorporating their input will make the space more inviting and encourage them to use it regularly for studying. Add personal touches such as their favorite books, a soft rug, or even a small bulletin board for photos and notes.

4. Armoire Office

For those seeking a versatile solution, create an armoire office. This clever design features a fold-down table that serves as a workstation when needed and can be tucked away neatly when not in use. The compact nature of an armoire office makes it great for shared spaces or rooms with limited square footage. It also helps maintain a clutter-free environment by concealing study materials when closed. Integrate cable management to keep electronic cords organized and out of sight.

5. Cozy Corner

Sometimes, simplicity is key. A cozy corner study station can be created with minimal effort using wall-mounted shelves or cubbies and a small computer desk. This setup is perfect for children who prefer a more intimate workspace. Personalize the area with inspiring artwork, a comfortable chair, and good lighting to create an atmosphere that encourages focus and productivity. Including a small plant can add some nature, contributing to a calming environment.

6. Corkboard Wall

Make a bold statement by covering an entire wall with cork tiles or chalkboard paint. This creates a striking visual element while providing a large surface for pinning up schedules, artwork, and reminders. The interactive nature of a corkboard or chalkboard wall can help children stay organized and engaged with their studies. Adding colorful pins and chalk adds a playful element, making the study area more appealing.

7. Kitchen Counter Homework Station

For younger children who require more supervision during homework time, a small desk at the end of a kitchen counter can be ideal. This open-yet-compact workspace allows parents to assist with assignments while preparing meals or attending to other household tasks. The proximity to the kitchen also facilitates easy snack breaks and encourages family interaction during study sessions.

8. Plugged-In Study Nook

In today’s digital age, a well-equipped study area often requires multiple power outlets. Create a plugged-in study nook by carving out space in the kitchen or another central location. Position the desk to face a wall, minimizing distractions and promoting focus. Incorporate built-in cabinetry for ample storage of books, supplies, and electronic devices. This setup makes it so all necessary tools are within reach, streamlining the homework process. Adding a comfortable chair will make long study sessions more manageable and enjoyable.

9. Great Room Homework Station

When dedicated office space is limited, integrate a homework station into your great room. Use a vacant wall to create a built-in work unit that complements the room’s overall design. This approach allows for shared use of living spaces while providing a designated area for studying. However, establish rules about television use during homework time to maintain a distraction-free environment. Be sure to add sufficient storage to keep study materials organized and out of sight when not in use.

10. Light, Bright Desktop

Proper lighting reduces eye strain and maintains focus during study sessions. For sit-down kitchen desks or other homework areas, provide adequate illumination by positioning light sources. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 30 inches between the bottom of a pendant light or lampshade and the work surface. This arrangement provides ample light without creating glare or shadows on the desktop. Use LED bulbs for energy efficiency and consistent lighting.

11. Budget Home Office

Creating an inspiring homework area doesn’t have to break the bank. Use leftover materials and bargain finds to design a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Incorporate a homework nook into existing built-in storage by repurposing shelves or cabinets. This approach not only saves money but also adds character to the space. Use vintage or reclaimed items to create a unique and personalized study area that reflects your child’s interests and personality. Repurposing old furniture and DIY decor can add a personal touch and provide a sense of accomplishment.

12. Rustic Reclaimed Study Station

For older children or teens, a rustic reclaimed study station can serve as both a functional workspace and a lesson in eco-friendly design. When incorporating salvaged materials, strike a balance between character and simplicity to avoid a cluttered appearance. Use reclaimed wood for desktops or shelving, and repurpose vintage items for storage or decor. This approach not only creates a unique study area but also teaches sustainability and creative reuse. Encourage your child to get involved in the design process to make it a collaborative and educational experience.

13. Side-by-Side Seating

In households with multiple children or where parents want to work alongside their kids, a side-by-side seating arrangement can be ideal. Include features such as outlets for multiple devices, task lighting, and shared storage. This setup encourages collaborative learning and allows for easy supervision when needed. Using matching chairs and coordinated decor can create a cohesive and harmonious look.

14. Creative Catch-All

A multifunctional homework station can serve as a central hub for various family needs. Incorporate elements such as a first-aid center, tech charging station, and storage for documents alongside the study area. Use a combination of open and closed storage to keep frequently used items accessible while concealing clutter. A corkboard backsplash provides a convenient spot for pinning notes, schedules, and reminders, helping to keep the entire family organized.

15. Space-Saving Station

For homes with limited floor space, a wall-mounted homework station can be an excellent solution. Design a unit that props up against the wall, similar to a ladder rack, with built-in shelving and a fold-down desk surface. This type of station can be anchored for stability or left portable, allowing for easy relocation if needed. The vertical design maximizes storage while minimizing the footprint, making it perfect for small bedrooms or shared living spaces. Incorporate hooks and pegs for additional hanging storage options.

16. Modern Home Office

Create a sleek and modern homework area by incorporating floating storage units and minimalist design elements. Large, high-impact shadowboxes can serve as both decorative features and functional storage spaces. This approach keeps the floor clear, creating a sense of openness and making the room appear larger. Choose a cohesive color scheme and streamlined furniture to complete the contemporary look. Use clear containers to store supplies, maintaining a tidy and uncluttered appearance.

17. High Impact Work Station

Add a pop of color and personality to your child’s study area with boldly colored storage. Use vibrant boxes for organizing supplies and color-coordinated binders for filing completed assignments and papers. This makes the space visually appealing and helps children develop organizational skills by associating different colors with specific subjects or types of materials. Use magnetic containers for small items to keep them easily accessible and neatly organized.

18. Hidden Study Station

In shared living spaces, a hidden study station can help maintain a clutter-free appearance when not in use. Use slim bifold doors to conceal the workspace, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding decor. This is particularly useful in living rooms, dining areas, or bedrooms where you want to maintain a cohesive aesthetic while still providing a dedicated homework space. Select furniture that matches the room’s existing style to create a harmonious look.

19. Wall-Mounted Wonder

Maximize vertical space with a wall-mounted folding desk that doubles as a covered storage unit. This compact solution is perfect for small rooms or areas where floor space is limited. When closed, the unit serves as a decorative wall feature, and when opened, it provides a functional workspace with built-in storage for supplies. Look for easy-to-install options that can be adjusted as your child grows. Add magnetic boards or pegboards above the desk for additional versatile storage.

20. Adjustable Storage Station

Create a flexible homework nook using adjustable wall-mounted shelving. This cost-effective alternative to built-in storage allows you to customize the space as your child’s needs change over time. Choose a shelving system that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate different textbooks, supplies, and equipment as your child progresses through school. Integrating various storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and boxes can help keep the area organized and neat.

21. Catch-All Cubby Bins

Incorporate open shelving with a variety of storage bins to create a versatile and organized homework station. Choose bins in different materials and colors to add visual interest while maintaining functionality. Wicker baskets can lend a natural, organic feel, while brightly colored fabric bins can inject energy into the space. Label each bin clearly to help your child develop good organizational habits. Use transparent bins for items that are used more frequently, making them easy to locate quickly.

22. Pretty and Punctual Homework Area

Encourage time management skills by incorporating a wall-mounted clock into your child’s study area. Allow your child to personalize the space with a few carefully chosen decor items, striking a balance between functionality and self-expression. This approach helps create a sense of ownership and pride in the workspace, potentially increasing the likelihood of consistent use. Adding motivational quotes or posters can inspire and motivate your child during study sessions.

23. Walled-Off Study Station

In larger rooms, create a dedicated study area using built-in room dividers. This approach provides privacy and helps minimize distractions while maintaining an open feel. Use a combination of open shelving and solid panels to create a semi-enclosed space that can be customized to suit your child’s needs and the room’s overall design. Integrate lighting such as desk lamps or wall-mounted sconces to make sure the area is well-lit.

24. Work Space With a View

Position desks near windows to take advantage of natural light and provide a pleasant view during study sessions. This arrangement can help reduce eye strain and create a more inviting atmosphere. Make sure that the view is not overly distracting and use adjustable blinds or curtains to control light levels throughout the day. Add some greenery or decorative plants on the windowsill to create a refreshing and vibrant environment.

25. Kid’s Corner

Transform a small corner of your child’s bedroom into a dedicated homework station. Use corner desks or L-shaped configurations to maximize space efficiency. Add floating shelves above the desk for additional storage and display space. This setup allows your child to have a personal study area without sacrificing too much floor space in their room. Personal touches such as favorite knick-knacks and artwork can make the area more appealing and comforting.

26. In-House Computer Lab

For families with multiple children, creating an in-house computer lab can provide equal access to technology for schoolwork. Make sure that each workstation has sufficient outlets for powering computers and charging devices. Design the space to accommodate different age groups and learning styles, with adjustable seating and desk heights if possible. This shared space can foster a collaborative learning environment while allowing for individual focus when needed. Include noise-canceling headphones to help minimize disturbances when several activities are happening simultaneously.

27. Reader-Created Study Station

Draw inspiration from creative homeowners who have designed unique study spaces for their children. For example, reader Carol Dregne of Galena, Illinois, created a vibrant workstation for her two boys to share. The world map wall covering serves as both an educational tool and an eye-catching backdrop. Incorporate educational elements into your child’s study area to make learning a natural part of the environment. Tailor elements such as world maps, periodic tables, or historical timelines to your child’s interests to make the space more engaging.

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Creating a Homework Station – 10 Spaces We Love

Set your kids up for some Back-to-School SUCCESS with a special spot to study and complete their assignments! Here are 10 favorite homework station ideas that will make doing homework a little less painful.

Here are a few more Homework Helps you might enjoy –  Homework Punch Cards + Rewards System,   Portable Homework Station,   Make Your Own Family Command Center , and  Reading Log for kids.

Kids Homework Station

Homework time can be a challenge for any family, but if kids have a dedicated study station with all the supplies they need for their assignments and projects, it’s so much easier to concentrate and get stuff done!

From a small homework nook with a homework caddie to a room with multiple study zones, here are 10 homework stations that kids will love! Take a look and get inspired to create the perfect workstation in your home. (Consider this your homework assignment!)

10 Homework Stations

See how Postbox Designs took a boring white hallway and transformed it into a perfect Homework Station! (This space is seriously my favorite!!)

I love this bright white homework area at the top of the stairs, from Decor Pad. The extra storage on top of those shelves is perfect! Such a great use of space!

The colors in this kid’s workspace are perfection! I love the drawers that separate the workspaces. From Home Bunch.

All the heart eyes for this clean and simple Double Homework Station by Decor Pad. That map wall is amazing and would be great for elementary school kids and teens, too!

Young House Love proves you don’t have to spend a ton on a functional DIY Homework Station . (Isn’t it pretty?!)

This Kid’s Computer Work Station is clean and simple… just the way I like it! From The Spruce.

A great way to maximize space, and avoid sibling contention! (BONUS!) I love this  Double Work Station by BHG.

A Wall Mounted Homework Desk is a great way to save on space. From BHG.

An organized cart from IKEA and a vintage school desk make this small space cute and functional! All the pencils, pens, crayons, markers, notebooks, glue, scissors, and erasers are within arm’s reach. From Design Improvised.

Last, but not least, this kid’s homework station from Hobby Lobby has all the fun supplies that make my heart happy! Who wouldn’t want to do their homework assignments in this home office? (Perfect for crafts, too!)

Busy moms, this one is for YOU!

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DIY Homework Station: How to Make One that WORKS

Ready for the school year? Here we go, the start of school means that homework is BACK. These tips will help you to set up a homework station that actually FUNCTIONS in your house. I’ve put together some of the same information I presented at back to school night as a teacher. I’ve also included tips that we have implemented in our own home.

Created in Partnership with Yoobi.

Whether you have a permanent dedicated space or want to know how to turn your kitchen table into a temporary homework space each day…….then these tips will get there you!

Well…..it’s time. Whether you have a kindergartner who needs to practice their sight words , a first or second grader who needs to play addition and subtraction games , or an older child who needs to read their favorite chapter book each day , then I can guarantee homework is loading.

Let’s start by talking about the FUNCTION of homework. Homework is meant to reinforce learning that happens at school. Your child should be practicing skills they already know, not struggling to learn something new. This is NOT supposed to be stressful. It is NOT supposed to take hours. Therefore, before we talk about physical set up and the perfect homework station, I wanted to talk about emotional support and set up for something that can become…..a bit stressful for some families.

Tips for Emotional Support and Homework

• homework time : I’d suggest communicating with your child’s teacher about their expectations for the amount of time to be spent on homework each day. Generally, we say it should be about 10-20 minutes per grade . Basically, we’d do 10 minutes to 15 minutes in Kindergarten, then 15 minutes to 20 minutes in first or second grade and so on. In my opinion, it should never be more than about 40 minutes in elementary school and then definitely never more than an hour even for the oldest kids.
• break cards: it’s important to remember that homework does not need to be completed in one chunk of time. Your child has already been at school ALL day. Breaks are important. Break cards are a great option, and also are a way to teach your child to identify and advocate for their own needs, and something you can easily include in your homework station.
• have a stopping point: one of the most important things about homework, is that your child knows their job is to try their best. They may not always finish every assignment. That is ok. Homework is a way your child can TRY newer skills independently after they have been a part of the school routine. If they have mastered them, and are able to complete an assignment in a reasonable amount of time? Great. If not? It’s a good idea to write a note to the teacher. You have valuable information…..that your child needs more support or instruction surrounding this particular task or skill.

How to Assemble the Perfect Homework Station: Tips from a Teacher

Now, let’s chat about creating a homework area.  It’s important for children to have a dedicated space to work, even if it’s a small space.  Remember, your child has some form of a work space in their classroom as do all the other children.  Classrooms have a variety of places for children to complete school work.  And for the most part, the spaces for individual students are fairly small.  Your child doesn’t need an entire room to have their needs met, a small homework station will be just fine.

Homework Station: Picking a Space

There are a few specific things to keep in mind while picking a space for a kids homework station. It’s important to consider noise, physical elements, and your child’s needs. Does your child need total quiet? Are they distracted by watching people walk by the front of your home? Do they enjoy working outdoors?

There are two types of homework stations you can set up in your home, a permanent space (normally in your kids’ rooms) or a portable homework station that can be set up in your family room, dining room or living room. Both of these options can be effective, they just take a bit of planning.

Important Elements to Any Homework Nook

• a comfortable chair: this can be a traditional desk char, an arm chair, a bean bag…..anything that allows your child to sit up and be supported while they work.
• enough space to spread out supplies and papers: many people need to physically see their work to complete it. There needs to be space to spread out materials, text books, and reference materials. It can be anything from a desk in your child’s bedroom to a dining table.
• the ability to create quiet: a door that can be shut works. Great ideas if you don’t have that option? Headphones. A small bluetooth speaker that can play calm music (this is a stellar option for older children). Anything that gives the ability to mute or quiet distracting sounds, especially in a common area.
• a table or laptop tray: in a perfect world with a designated space to work…..you’d have a desk or table for completing work. But, if that isn’t feasible? Think about a work tray. A laptop tray that will create a flat space for work can be totally functional and easy to assemble then put away as needed.

If you have a permanent space (say in your kids’ rooms )….you can leave supplies out and neatly organized. But the key for a smaller space? The perfect solution is a homework supply basket or caddy. You’ll keep ALL supplies needed for homework time in one bucket or basket. Your child will take that out at homework time and set up a temporary new homework station for their work time. At the end? They’ll put it BACK into the caddy and put the caddy away. Rinse and repeat each day.

Homework Station Ideas: Homework Supplies

Now let’s talk school supplies, materials needed, and how to organize everything for a perfectly functioning diy homework station.

My biggest advice? When setting up a homework station, you want all supplies needed to complete assignments, and a way to organize them. A child’s homework station should have everything necessary so that they can sit down, and get right to work without asking for the basics or wasting time avoiding what needs to be done.

Homework Zone Supplies List

• sharpened pencils
• pencil sharpener
• highlighter set
• mini office supply set
• folder to store loose papers
• pencil case or storage caddy

My favorite school supplies to include in any work area? Yoobi products . I’ve shared their company many times over the years…..and can tell you first hand…..they make a difference. Yoobi, the “buy one, give one” school and office supply brand, believes all children should have an equal opportunity to learn and be creative. For every item purchased, Yoobi donates a school supply item to a U.S. child in need. In fact, my old school in Los Angeles received Yoobi supplies and they were an amazing support to our classrooms. Bonus? Yoobi has ADORABLE, fun and colorful collections (they even have a Marvel collection)….so can guarantee they’re a fun way to bring some excitement to your homework station. You can buy their products HERE on Target.com , highly suggest letting your child pick their favorites so that they have some ownership over their work space!

SHOP YOOBI SUPPLIES HERE

Whatever the age of your child, I can guarantee these tips for creating a homework station will help to create a perfect place for work at home. Between extracurricular activities, and holidays and LIFE…..it can be hard to create smooth homework routines….but a dedicated space will definitely help to meet your childs’ needs.

Do you have a homework station in your home? What does it look like? And what are YOUR tips for creating the ultimate homework station?

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10 Homework Station Ideas for Back-to-school

August 06, 2024 by Todd Dermody

“Prepare your kids (and yourself) for the upcoming school year with these DIY projects!”

With fall right around the corner, it’s a great time to equip your kids for the new school year, and what better way to do this than some DIY projects for the kids’ homework stations? From DIY pencil holders to full desks, you can get your kids set up for success for the start of school. 

DIY Homework Station

It’s that time of year again. Book reports, math homework, and art projects. We’ve built a DIY homework station that’s easy to make over a weekend. Plus, this station folds up to limit the space it takes up in your home. 

Watch the video

How To Make a DIY Pencil Holder

Sometimes getting pencils back in the box can be tricky for kids of all ages, but not with this DIY pencil holder. If you’re looking for a quick DIY project, this is a great starter project for you or even little ones!

Get the project plan

DIY Desk and Sideboard Organizer

If you’re having trouble finding the right desk to fit your child’s needs, build it yourself! This DIY desk and sideboard organizer were designed to provide plenty of desk space along with organizer space for homework, art supplies, or mementos. 

DIY Desktop Succulent Planter

If you think building a DIY desk is easier than keeping a plant alive, you’re not alone! That’s why this DIY desktop succulent planter is a nice addition for any workstation. It’s an easy project and introduces a new life skill to your children—keeping a plant alive.

Awkward Space Makeover: Closet Office

We all have those awkward spaces in our home that we don’t quite know what to do with—below the staircase, along the hallway, above the washer and dryer. Each awkward space is unique—this closet desk project provides a solution for turning one of those spaces into a working desk that maximizes space!

DIY Wood Standing Desk

Step aside lower back pain! Sitting at a desk can be a pain, so we created a DIY wood standing desk for kids who would rather stand instead of sitting for extended periods. Whether doing homework or helping you plan your next DIY project, this standing desk is a great addition to provide a workspace without taking up a lot of room. 

How To Make a Desktop Organizer

No matter how hard your kids try to avoid it, desks can get messy—loose pens, unraveled cables, or scattered stacks of Post-it notes—and desk organizers can work like a charm. This DIY desk organizer is simple to make, easy to customize, and pleasing to the eye.

DIY Tool Storage Caddy

How often do you find yourself in need of a pair of scissors or pliers only to forget where you last put them? If you could use easy access to common tools around the house, this DIY tool storage caddy is a great solution. You can easily customize it to your needs and tools so you won’t need to wonder where they are again.

How To Make a Storage Pegboard

Sometimes building storage space requires creativity, and this DIY storage pegboard is just that. Whether you need to store school books, show off some kids’ art, or hang headphones, this storage pegboard is a nice balance of function and aesthetic.

Home Organization: DIY Bulletin Board

Inspired by a DIY chalkboard project we did a few years ago, we wanted a bulletin board to post ideas, inspirations, and designs. This DIY bulletin board is a fun project and gives you (or your loved ones) space to hang important reminders, artwork, or a list of chores. 

For more DIY projects and inspiration, check out our interior project archive !

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• Back To School Essentials
• Kids Room Decor

13 Inspiring Homework Stations for Kids

There are so many great things about school . Kids make friends and learn all kinds of cool stuff, and you get to take care of business without having to worry about if they’re spending too much time online. If there’s one downside, it’s probably homework, and while the verdict is still out on how much good it really does, it’s probably going to make its way home at some point during the year. That’s why it’s important to dedicate somewhere to school and learning at home to help kids stay focused. These inspiring ideas go from grand loft bed-desk combinations to simple, small-space work station inspirations, and we think you’ll find one that’s just right for you.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Organizing & Colorful Decor (@blueistyle)

Moving Work Station

What started as a creative way to make a work station for kids during the pandemic holds up just as well for after-school work. Simply set them up in their spot of choice and roll their supplies over to them. 

Lofted Look

If your kid’s room doesn’t seem to have space for a desk, Crate and Kids has a cool solution with their Kids Uptown Loft Bed Desk that can be attached to the interior or exterior rail of their Uptown Loft Bed for a cozy study cove (as can a matching shelf for book overflow). A Kathleen Wills design, this look is clean and contemporary, while wall space can shine with personal touches like artwork, maps, or memo boards to spur on study sessions. 

Ergonomic Ease

IKEA’s FLISAT collection is designed for kids ages three all the way up to 12, so these pieces are meant to be versatile and customizable. They are also made of pine for a non-toxic study station. The legs on this FLISAT desk adjust to one of three heights to accommodate growing learners, while the top tilts for a fully ergonomic fit. It also conveniently holds a roll of drawing paper for artistic study breaks. If you want to round out the room with storage bins (on wheels!), a sweet book display, or a dollhouse-shaped wall shelf for books and other supplies, explore the entire collection .

Short and Sweet

Pottery Barn Kids’ Catalina Collection is a best-selling desk for good reason. The Catalina Storage Desk comes with three different hutch options, one of which comes with an outlet for easy charging capabilities. The oversized nob on the larger drawers also makes it easy for little hands to fully own and operate this space.

Make Space in the Kitchen Cabinet

Have you tried setting up study stations in their rooms, but the homework still ends up at the kitchen counter? Your kids, especially during early schooling, may just work better in a space where you can help them stay on task. So go with it and designate cabinet space for school and craft supplies. This design from Mullet Cabinet makes organization and storage a breeze, all in a separate section of the island so parents can still prep dinner and are present for any questions that might come up. Because it's a shared space, kids can also be responsible for setting up and cleaning up—and won’t waste any time hunting down that calculator.

Related:  PSA: You Don’t Have to Manage Your Kid’s Homework Assignments

Work Station with a View

You can get creative with the spot you dedicate for homework. We love how Design Improvised set up this station by a window (it’s important to take those mental pauses to gaze and regroup). With a portable cart that’s labeled and well-stocked with everything little learners would need, a chalkboard calendar for keeping easy track of assignments, and a desk to call their own, they also have everything they need to get to work. 

A Crafty Corner

We love this genius setup from The Vintage Glitter House —a painted pegboard offers a fun pop of color as well as lots of space to hang supplies and decorations. That way, your kiddo's pencils, paper, and craft supplies will all be in one spot. 

Extra Book Nook

This book set up from Good + Simple will help encourage reluctant readers and is an awesome addition to any study or work station. With sections for "currently reading" and "to read," it'll keep things organized while getting them excited about their next book. 

(Closet) Office Space

An extra closet becomes a fun "office" space for the kids over at Look Linger Love . Clear plastic bins keep supplies organized and in view, and any mess is easy to conceal by shutting the door. Tucked in a corner of the playroom, you can take a closer look and tour the rest of the adorable space here .

A Small Station

Any room in your abode can be the perfect study space with this portable homework station. Head over to The House of Smiths for the how-to.

Related:  Turns Out Helping Elementary Kids with Homework Isn’t Helping Them at All, Study Finds

Play School

Old-fashioned one-room schoolhouses served as inspiration for this adorable study space. Take a tour over at Playful Learning .

Hideaway Work Station

To help create a clutter-free zone in her daughter's room, the clever mom over at Organized Mom decided to mask the mess. With built-in shelving and a fold-up base, this DIY desk easily folds up when not in use.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ellen Grasso & Sons (@ellengrassoandsons)

Homework Isle

This combination of study space and craft area is perfect for group projects. The custom-designed craft/work island by Ellen Grasso & Sons features convenient storage space for each seat; supplies can be neatly stored until needed.

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Homework Station Ideas for Kids

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While the importance of having a separate spot for working and doing homework has been researched and documented a long time ago, the situation with the pandemic this past year and a half only made it that much more necessary. All kids deserve to have their own learning corner at home, but if you still don’t know how to make it, our homework station ideas can be an inspiration.

Maybe you want to renovate and upgrade your child’s old homework station? That’s fine, too! In this article, we’ll discuss how to create a homework station for kids at home, including details about where, why, and what would make the ideal homework station for your home. Then, we’ll share some creative and beautiful examples of the homes of other parents who nailed this challenge. Finally, we’ll give you additional DIY homework station ideas and instructions on how to turn them into a reality. 

With the help of a stress-free study zone at your home, kids will have a structure, routine, and an environment that’s inviting them to learn. This is because we all associate certain places with specific functions. It’s very difficult, if not impossible, to sleep, eat, work, and relax all in one place, especially for young kids. To avoid confusing and distracting them, here’s how to create the ultimate homework station. 

How to Create the Ultimate Homework Station for Kids

The ideal homework station for kids is a bright, uncluttered surface with stimulating learning materials where kids can write their assignments, study, read, or complete other school-related activities. 

It’s a physically designated space in the house that has only one function. This way, kids will associate the environment with studying and working, which will make it easier for them to slip back into a routine and complete everything on time. 

Fortunately, this can be accomplished in many different ways and with little or no investment – if that’s what you wish or need to do. The ideal homework station doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will walk you through the process of creating the perfect homework station for your kids. 

Step 1: Choose the location. There’s a lot to be considered when choosing a location, which is why we’ll elaborate on this step in the next paragraph.

Step 2: Think about your child’s needs. What your child needs depends on their grade, their interests, and some other factors. For example, are they homeschooled or go to a public school? Are they in first grade, learning how to read and write, or are they starting with more complex subjects like science and physics? Do they have online teaching or in person? What are their hobbies or extracurricular activities? The answers to these questions will give you an idea of the most important elements that your child’s homework station should contain.

Step 3: Ask for your child’s feedback. Before deciding anything, make sure to ask your child when they need or want. This is especially important for things that directly affect their learning habits. For example, do they think they’ll learn better in front of a window with lots of natural light, or will that be more of a distraction? What’s their favorite color? What’s their favorite subject at school? What do they like about the classroom? 

Step 4: Invest in storage and organization! Decluttering the homework surface area and having everything well-organized is crucial. While it’s important for your child to have everything they need for every subject, displaying it all in front of them does more harm than good. It will distract them and make them feel overwhelmed. A clean surface with a big space area is always a smart idea. 

Step 5: Create a routine. You can achieve this by creating a schedule and sticking to it. It doesn’t really matter when the child will do their homework. It’s much more important to do it at the same time every day. This way, they’ll be disciplined and the habit will make studying time much more efficient. 

Step 6: Increase comfort. Finally, the last thing you should consider is the details that make one homework station a pleasing and inviting environment. Place a blooming flower on their desk, arrange their books on a shelf and add tiny decorations next to them such as their favorite toy, attach a colorful poster with helpful information on the wall, or place pillows on their chair – the choice is yours and your child’s. 

Where to Set Up the Homework Station?

Choosing the perfect spot for a homework station is one of the most important decisions. The details can be easily changed later, but the location largely affects the ability of your child to complete their school assignments efficiently. 

Moreover, the perfect location is a subjective concept. Depending on the parent’s schedule and responsibilities in the house, the house’s layout, and your child’s character, the best homework station ideas would be very different from one to another. 

Here are a few guidelines that will help you choose the best location for your homework station: 

• Noise – the first and one of the most essential factors to consider is noise. The homework station needs to be in a quiet place, away from the kitchen, TV, or other distractions. 
• Light – the second most important factor when deciding where to install a homework station is the natural light of the room. The rule of thumb is to choose a bright area near a window, but this is not always the best idea. For example, children with autism are typically more sensitive to sensory stimuli and too bright areas near a window may be harmful. Also, children with ADHD might get easily distracted if they see constant movement outside of the window. You know your child best, so choose wisely, but, if the station is in a completely isolated area, invest in high-quality artificial light. 
• Surrounding – make sure the surroundings complements the function of the homework station. For instance, some parents think the best homework station idea is to create it in their home office and for the whole family to work together. Others like to give children more privacy and install homework stations in a separate corner of the house. That being said, placing a homework station in the living room or in the kitchen is definitely not a good idea.
• Space – finally, think about the space. While there are some unique and wonderfully executed homework station ideas in a limited space area (when there’s no other option), it’s better to place the homework station in an open area.

Homework Station Essentials

Once you have the structure figured out, you need to add the functional essential that will turn that area into an efficient learning space. What does a child need to be able to effortlessly complete their homework and other school activities on the homework station? 

First, think about the need for a computer . If they have their classes online, having a computer or a laptop is essential, obviously. But, what if they don’t have online classes – is it a good idea to incorporate a computer in the homework station? This mostly depends on the child’s grade level. For elementary school students, a computer is probably not important, but as they grow, they’ll need to do research online, create presentations, or even send their homework through email. Talk to your child and their teacher to get a better idea of how much they need a computer.

Second, let’s talk about essential homework station supplies. Here’s what you need: 

• Pens and pencils; 
• Markers; 
• Drawing paper; 
• Watercolors or other paints;
• Rulers; 
• A drawing compass;
• Calculator; 
• Highlighters; 
• Index cards;
• Scissors; 

These are some of the essentials, although, with time, you’ll gradually increase the supplies according to your child’s needs. 

Homework Station Ideas

One picture is worth a thousand words. We realize that some people have a hard time imagining the homework station without actually seeing what it looks like, which is why we picked four unique and creative homework station ideas to showcase. 

Mom 4 Real’s Back to School Homework Station Idea

The first idea comes from Jessica from Mom4Real. When the summer break was over and her children were back at school, she decided to take matters into her own hands and design a creative homework space. 

We love Jessica’s idea because it’s very easy to implement and looks amazing. She turned a regular table and a corner of her house into a creative homework area. She did so much with so little. Thanks to a desktop carousel, Jessica organized most of the supplies in the middle of the table. On the walls, there’s an encouraging banner and a blackboard for writing the children’s progress or future assignments such as a “to-do” list. 

Kelly Elko’s Sunroom Homework Station Idea

Kelly Elko designed a sunroom with three separate zones, one of which is a bright and minimalistic homework station. 

They placed the homework station right against the main windows, so the children can do their homework and learn in natural light. 

When it comes to the desks, their advice is to use cheap dining tables from IKEA, instead of overpriced desks. Apparently, they work better than regular desks as they’re just the right height and come with a larger work surface. 

When it comes to the supplies and elements, they also kept everything clean and minimalist. They have a table lamp, a jar with pencils and markers, and a globe. That’s it.

Upcycled Kids’ Art Station by Tauni Everett

This homework station idea by Tauni Everett is a great solution for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of space and needs everything to be maximally optimized. 

Tauni bought an end table and two child-friendly chairs. She placed them in a corner and hung a large pegboard above the table on the front wall. On the pegboard, she placed a wooden rack for paints, brushes, and glue, scissors, jars for craft decorations or other miniature supplies, stickers, cans for markers and pencils, rulers, and a few other things. 

With everything hanging on the wall, the small end table is all free, so the child can have more space to work on. 

Closet Turned Into Homework Station Center by Rebecca Propes

Finally, we have an unconventional, yet elaborate homework station idea by Rebecca Propes. She recently moved into a new home and decided to turn the space under the stairs into an educational center. 

The space itself is not big, but from the images, you can see that everything is well organized and it seems clean and functional. They used a small self desk to save up space and added additional shelves above the desk for the supplies. 

Just like the example from above, Rebecca used the wall to hang supplies that would otherwise take up a lot of space. At the entrance, they used the large wall space to place a blackboard and a mailbox for their child’s finished work. Very creative, don’t you think?

More Cool Homework Station Ideas

As we’ve seen from the above-mentioned examples, you can create a homework station from pretty much anything. Whether it’s a dining table or a shelf table under the stairs, when executed right, you can get a functional work area that’s aesthetically pleasing and stimulating. 

But, of course, that’s not all you can do. In addition, we’ll share other homework station ideas to inspire you further and make you think of a unique solution for your whole family. 

• Homework Station for the Whole Family

The first idea is a creative solution for the whole family, and it’s especially beneficial for parents who work from home. 

The idea of a homework station for the whole family is actually a plan for merging your home office with the homework space for children. For example, you can turn one room into an office and have your desk on one side of the room and your children’s desks on the other. 

Since doing homework is mostly a silent activity, kids won’t be in the way of your work responsibilities, although there are some downsides that need to be considered.

On one hand, the benefits of merging your office with the children’s study area include being able to easily monitor and help your kids while working, saving space, and promoting discipline.

On the other hand, the downsides of merging your office with the children’s study area concern the possibility of interference. If you have a lot of meetings or your work requires you to speak most of the time, then you might distract them and stand in the way of their progress. The interference can also happen in the other direction. If your children are impulsive and have a temperament, they might make noise or interact with you, making your work harder. 

• Tech Savvy Homework Station Idea

The tech-savvy homework station idea is a great solution for kids with online classes as well as older students whose assignments demand working on a computer. 

To make a tech-savvy homework station, you need a desk with a large working area. Buying IKEA’s dining tables might be a smart alternative. This is because the area needs to accommodate the laptop or the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and still have space for the child to write. 

Taking it up a notch, you can also place a small printer, camera, speakers, or other gadgets that will make the student’s work easier. For instance, buying a digital microscope that links to their computer is a great addition for kids who love science. 

• Built-In Homework Station Ideas

The built-in homework station ideas are perfect for houses with unused space, like storage, closet, or under-stairs space. Rebecca Propes’s homework station (described above) was a good example of this type of station. 

Other examples include creating a homework station as part of a built-in cabinet, closet space, empty hallway space, or another unused area.  

• Shelf Homework Station Ideas for Small Spaces

The self-desk homework station ideas are a really smart solution for families with limited space. They attach to a wall and if you invest in a high-quality desk, they can be really sturdy and lasting. 

Self desks work great in combination with other wall attachments. For instance, adding a pinboard to hang most of the materials is a great way to save space and keep the self desk empty, enlarging the work surface. 

• Dedicated Multi-Functional Homework Center

A dedicated homework center is actually a large space or a separate room that’s specifically dedicated to studying. Not everyone can afford such a space, but if you have the conditions and space to implement such a room, then, by all means, do. 

If you create it aesthetically pleasing, colorful, with a lot of supplies, and interesting learning tools, your child might even perceive that room as their entertainment center. 

They can have their own mini-library, a reading spot, a desk for writing homework, an artistic corner with art supplies, a science corner with a small digital microscope, telescope, globe, and maps on the walls for geography and history. 

Before You Leave

As we’ve seen by now, the best way to engage your child in doing their school assignments on time, as well as motivating them to be efficient and fully concentrated, is to create a functional study area in combination with an optimized schedule. Consistency in time and space will lead to success. 

In this article, we’ve given our best to guide you through the process of creating a homework station in your home. Hopefully, our homework station ideas were inspiring and you’ve already started planning how to execute your favorite solution. 

Once you create an educational space for your child, come back to our website and browse through our worksheet library . We can help you further by providing educational materials that your child can use on their new homework station. Finally, let us remind you that our blog is a valuable resource for you! Whether you’re a teacher or a homeschooling parent, we regularly share insightful content with specific tips, tricks, and other pieces of advice in various aspects of education.

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7 Steps to Setting up the Best Kids Homework Station for School at Home

In this post, we share 7 steps for setting up an effective kids homework station for school at home and virtual learning this fall. Plus get a free printable guide with checklists & ideas!

Many of our kids will be learning at home again this fall, whether full time, part time, or homeschooling. I know that this is such a challenging situation for so many families and I hope you are able to give yourself and your kids grace amidst it all.

Since many of us will have kids at home at the beginning of this school year , I partnered with Faber-Castell USA to create a post about setting up a kids homework station (or home school desk) for school at home with a variety of tools and supplies to make learning and creating at home as easy as possible. 

While a homework station is always a good idea, “home work” is taking on a whole new meaning. It is more important than ever that we are able to create an environment at home that is conducive for learning and that is stocked with the right tools and supplies. 

A kids learning station, if you will.

A lot of thought and planning goes into the way classroom environments are set up, by teachers, schools and educational experts. Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia school of education, calls environment the “third teacher.” 

In this post, I will help parents put a little additional effort into creating a learning environment at home, whether it’s a life-as-usual homework desk or a school-at-home kids homework station.

NOTE: I would like to acknowledge that many families are experiencing varying degrees of financial difficulty right now. I wanted to pull together some ideas that might help your child work from home in peace and harmony. Some of these are free or inexpensive. Some less so. But please know that this post is not created to make anyone feel like they need to have all of these things.

I’ve been thinking carefully about the concept of environment as the third teacher in the context of my own kids’ learning at home. Mine will be going back to learning at home with virtual classrooms, and I know many others will be as well. 

What do kids need from their environment in order to learn effectively at home?

For my 10 year old, this means she needs room to write and draw and read. It also means that she needs a space to set up her school laptop and do math assignments or to participate in a Zoom classroom call. She needs a quiet, relatively private place to think and work and participate in virtual instruction. She needs the tools and materials for school assignments as well as for creative expression and stress release.

My teen needs many of the same things, with extra emphasis on privacy and help focusing amidst the bustle of a mixed-age household.

A kindergarten or young elementary school student would do well with a desk or table near a caregiver to practice writing letters, illustrate ideas, and write a few interesting words next to a hand-drawn map of his neighborhood. While they may have some video-based classes as well, I hope that kids this age also have plenty of time and emphasis on hands-on and play-based learning.

For a preschool-aged kid, they need time, space, and support to build with blocks, play with playdough, cut out hand-drawn pictures with scissors, and explore letters and sounds. ( For a no-screen preschool option, you might want to consider my friend Ginger Huebner’s Roots + Wings Preschool. Her arts- and play-based preschool is creating home curriculum boxes — Pre-K Little Wings — that they are sending to families all over the country. Each box contains instructions and materials for her tried-and-true preschool activities. )

Let’s Rise to the Challenge

The reality is that this current learning-at-home situation is an imperfect solution to a difficult dilemma and everyone is doing the best they can to rise to the occasion.

• Teachers and schools are doing their absolute best to create connections and provide teaching and learning to their students.
• Kids are doing their best to focus and learn at home in environments and under circumstances that are suddenly very different for many of them, without their friends and peers to play with and learn from.
• Parents and caregivers are doing their best to juggle working at home while facilitating their children’s schoolwork and making space for all of the above while keeping their family safe and happy.

We are all being asked to rise to the challenge of doing things differently right now. For many families, this means helping our kids to learn effectively at home.

With that in mind, here are some ideas for creating a learning environment at home that works best for your family.

7 Tips for Setting Up a Kid’s Homework Station for School at Home  

This might look like one main learning station, or it might look like multiple learning stations in the different locations depending on your family situation, the size and layout of your home, and your children’s ages and needs.

1. Set up a desk or work surface for a kids homework station.

If you already have a desk or a work space for your child, great. 

If not, here are some ideas.

• You can pick one up at a big box store or furniture store. Or you can order a desk online at places such as Amazon, Wayfair, IKEA, Pottery Barn Kids. We have a couple of these basic MICKE desks from IKEA .
• Or, perhaps there’s a table in your home that you can use as a desk, whether it’s a table you can dedicate to a learning station or the kitchen table that gets to serve multiple purposes throughout the day.
• If you’re handy with a hammer and saw, you can build a homework desk.
• You can even create a makeshift desk by getting a door or a piece of wood and putting it on a couple of sawhorses from Lowes/Home Depot.
• You can search local secondhand sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, many of whom have safety policies in place.

Okay, now that you have a desk or other work surface, you also need a chair.

NOTE: Make sure to download the free PDF guide at the end of this post for setting up a home learning station as it includes ideas, checklists, and illustrations.

2. Make sure you have a comfortable chair.

Your child’s probably going to be sitting in this chair a lot, so have your child help find a set up that’s comfortable for them.

We had a cheap plastic IKEA chair which served our purpose for a while because Daphne’s desk wasn’t actually used much. But once I realized that this school-at-home situation was likely to last longer than I initially thought (than anyone initially thought!), I agreed to buy the girls both comfortable swivel chairs.

If you’re looking for a good value comfortable swivel chair, here’s one.

We’ve had success with fidget or wobble cushions in the past for child #1, who needed extra help focusing and didn’t like to sit down or sit still.

And I know that some people really like those balance ball chairs for similar reasons.

Anything they can sit on that’s comfortable to work from is fine, though!

3. Ensure Good Lighting

You’ll need good task lighting. If your work area isn’t well lit, try a lamp such as this swing arm desk lamp . Or this one .

4. Stock up on School Supplies & Art Supplies

You’ll need all the normal school and art supplies such as paper, pencils, markers, scissors, and paints. Here are a couple of lists to get you started. And you can find handy printable versions of these checklists (with even more ideas!) in the PDF guide at the bottom of this post.

A List of Basic School Supplies for Your At-Home Work Space

• Pencil sharpener
• Lined paper
• Composition notebooks
• Blank story books
• Blank paper

A List of Basic Arts & Crafts Supplies

• Colored pencils
• Oil pastels
• Watercolor paints
• Tempera paint
• Paint brushes
• Colored construction paper
• Sturdy paper for painting
• Modeling clay
• Pipe cleaners
• Googly eyes

Now that you’ve stocked up on school and art supplies, you might want a way to organize them.

5. Getting Organized

To help your kids learn without being stressed by clutter or by spending a bunch of time trying to find what they need each day, you’ll want to do your best to maintain a clear and organized desk and space. Here are some ideas for organizing your supplies and keeping them off the desk/table as much as possible:

Organize Supplies

• A rolling cart
• An art caddy
• A segmented organizer
• A nearby cupboard, closet, or dresser
• Desk drawers
• Wall-mount paper / file storage
• Wall-mount basket storage

Use the Wall

Use the vertical space provided by the wall closest to the desk or table in order to maximize space.

• Bulletin board
• Wall mount storage (see above)

Organize Time

Help your child organize their time, from the hours of their days to the days of the week and month with the following ideas:

• Weekly or monthly calendar
• Whiteboard calendar
• Daily schedule or checklist
• A visual timer

Now that you’re organized, you may want to consider some additional educational tools or supplies for your child’s at-home learning station or desk. 

6. Educational Extensions for Learning at Home

These are additional educational tools and supplies, such as globes, maps, educational posters, and science kits. Things that a classroom might have as part of their learning environment but that we might not usually have at home. These are completely optional, of course, but if you have the budget, it could be worth incorporating one or more of the following:

• Maps ( world , country , state, constellations, etc)
• Educational posters  
• Learning charts (such as the periodic table of elements )
• A children’s dictionary
• A children’s thesaurus
• Microscope or magnifying glass
• Math manipulatives
• Chemistry set (or other science kit)

Now that your child’s learning station is tricked out with educational tools and supplies, you may want to personalize it to make it extra special and comfortable.

7. Personalize Your Child’s Homework Station

Help kids feel excited about their learning area by personalizing it with their name, artworks, photos of friends and family, and more. Here are some ideas to consider:

• The child’s artwork, perhaps in a special frame that doubles as storage and makes it easy to add new artworks
• A message board
• Photos of friends
• Photo of the teacher
• Photo of the child’s classmates
• Family photo
• A special note from a friend, teacher, or family member
• Inspirational quote

That’s a lot of ideas that we’ve just shared! But they’re just that. Ideas. Use them as a starting point as you create learning stations that work for your kids, your family, and your budget.

Want a printable guide with ideas and checklists to help you assess and adjust your current virtual learning desk area or to set up a learning station from scratch?

Get the Free Printable Guide

CLICK HERE to get the Free Printable Guide !

I put together a printable guide and checklist to help you as you set up for virtual learning with your child’s homework station. It includes ideas and guidelines for different ages as well as school and art supply checklists. You can download it for free with the link above.

This post is sponsored by Faber-Castell USA and some of the Faber-Castell supplies pictured were sent to us for free for the post. I only promote products I love and believe will be of value to you as well. All opinions expressed are my own.

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How to Make the Ultimate Homework Station + Printable Homework Chart

If you struggle with getting your kids to sit down to do their homework, you need my ultimate homework station ideas!

The first day of school is headed our way all too soon friends. And you know what that means right? It’s time for us moms to brainstorm ways we can make things easier on ourselves AND our kids this school year! So, let’s talk about the organization, shall we? The more chaotic things are at your house, the more likely stress is to show up. I’ve always found that having dedicated spaces, like the ultimate homework station, for daily activities makes life so much more seamless.

I’m referring to chill zones, homework stations, zen spots, and the like. Today we’re going to focus on the ultimate homework station, but I urge you to set up the other areas in your home for optimal enjoyment too. Create super relaxing bedrooms with serene colors and uncluttered spaces. Make your rec rooms fit for hanging out with comfortable furniture that the kids aren’t scared to sit on. You get the picture right? It’s all about making your homework for you!

Homework Station Must-Haves

A space to work.

Whether it’s their own desk and/or table and chairs or simply your kitchen or dining room table, make sure your kids have access to a quiet space.

A portable cart or shelving unit

Bulletin board.

If you have a place to hang one, it’s a perfect way for your kids to keep track of deadlines, save ideas that inspire them etc. You can even leave them notes like hey kid, pick up your room. Haha!

Bright colors

Make your family’s homework station FUN! Your kids are more likely to want to sit down and work if they enjoy the environment they’re working in! Head over to Pinterest, type in homework station and you’ll find no shortage of cheerful design ideas!

Extra Supplies  

Don’t give the kids an excuse to have to get up.  Have extra pencils, crayons, rulers, scissors, notebook paper, and other school supplies they use regularly, at your homework station.

After a long day at school, having some yummy snacks on hand for the little learners will definitely help keep them focused.  Two snacks that my kids love are Veggie Straws and Granola Bars.

Are you still shopping for back to school?  Now is the perfect time to pick up all your homework station supplies at Walmart, the selection is amazing! 

Homework Chart Printable

Need some more school year tips  check these out:.

After School Routine Tips

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You have brilliant ideas here to attract kids to sit and do their homework. I strongly agree that we need to create a space and good environment and vibes to study and do their homework daily.

Super ideas for a homework station… and also for our grown-ups work stations. It’s so important to have the right atmosphere and supplies to keep you focused!

Homework station is such a fun idea. My kids ould be so happy to have their on.

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Back To School: 12 Fabulous Homework Station Ideas

The new school year is just around the corner and it’s time to start preparing your house for the school routine.

A well-organized homework station is a big help for those daily homework sessions and creating good study habits.

If you don’t have a homework station yet, or it needs some refreshing, check out these 12 fabulous homework station ideas!

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Homework Station: DIY Tutorial

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It was that time again. Nights were getting cooler. Flyers were advertising fresh pencils and pens. Letters from teachers were arriving in the mail. It was time to go back to school time and mom had plans. Plans that involved upgrading the playroom from a place filled with toys and primary colors to a place that would allow focus and learning and productivity. I wanted a… Homework Station.

From Playroom to Big Kids Playroom

My children are 9, 7, and 4, so there’s still a lot of playing, but not as much as there was a few years ago. They now spend a lot of time in school and even when they’re home, their playing has changed.

While spending some time on Pinterest , I found some amazing inspiration, especially from Postbox Designs , which was simple, and had enough space for three chairs. 

When I saw her space, I knew it was game on.

Homework Station Planning

List of must-haves.

Not all homework stations are created equal, nor are they designed for as many kids as I have (just three, but still). Before we jumped into building, I created a list of must-haves for the space.

• Space for three kids to work and sit.
• Paper storage for study guides and long-term homework
• Display area for tests and artwork
• Storage for school supplies and crafts
• A simple, sophisticated look

Can We Repurpose?

I toyed around with some ideas for repurposing two different tables we already had. Unfortunately, both possibilities would have made it awkward for 3 children and chairs. We decided if we were going to redo our room and if we intended for our children to use it for years to come; it was worth spending a little of money on a new surface.

Homework Station Materials

We headed off to Ikea, by far the best place to get inspired for a project like this.

We needed a nice sturdy surface that was long enough for three chairs.

Homework Station Work Surface

When I saw the Karlby counter and fell in love. I loved the wood, the stain, and the simplicity. It was exactly the look I was aiming for.

I was a little disappointed to find it was not solid wood all the way through like some other butcher block options, but it was the perfect length, so we wouldn’t be exposing any of the inside.

This counter can also be sanded and refinished, if needed. The particleboard inside makes the counter lighter, which was helpful for how we intended to install it — mounted to the wall with legs for support .

Homework Station Legs

While at Ikea, we picked up 4 simple metal legs to help define each work space and support the surface.

We planned to install one leg on either end of the counter and install 2 additional legs in the middles, creating spaces for three chairs and, more importantly, clear boundaries for children.

After getting the Karlby counter, my vision came together. I was going deep and dark with the wood and the walls, and I’d rely on white and gold accents and natural light to brighten it up.

I decided on Gauntlet Grey by Sherwin Williams . It’s on the darker side but not too dark, it’s oh-so-pretty and is in the same pallet as Mindful Grey , which is what many other parts of the house are painted.

Fun Fact: Home Depot will mix any color paint, regardless of which company created it. You can save a boatload of money and still get the exact color you want.

Homework Station Installation

After purchasing all the materials and painting, it was time for the installation.

Ledger Board

The first thing installed was a 2″x2″ ledger board that was 5 feet long onto the wall. Since the counter was 7 feet long, we cut the ledger board to 5 feet so it wouldn’t be seen from the sides of the homework station.

We calculated how high we wanted the table to be, then subtracted the thickness of the table. We also made sure the ledger board hit multiple studs so it would provide enough support for the countertop.

After we had the ledger board in place, I painted it grey. This step was probably a little excessive, but it ensures that even if you can see the ledger board, it blends in with the wall and doesn’t stand out like unfinished wood might.

Installing the Legs

Now we were ready to focus on the surface. To install the 4 legs, we flipped the Karlby counter upside down. We measured carefully, installing two legs on either end, then two evenly spaced in the middle. This left us with three perfect spaces for three little chairs for three children to sit.

Mounting the Homework Station

We flipped the countertop with the legs attached back over and centered it on the wall about the ledger board. We got 2.5-inch screws — this was important.

We got under the counter and screwed the screws up through the ledger board and into the bottom of the homework station. We did this to avoid screwing into the top of the counter.

Screw length was essential . Longer screws would have poked out the top of the homework station. Shorter screws wouldn’t have been long enough to hold the homework station in place.

Homework Station Organization

Now that the homework station surface was in place, it was time to add some fun details.

Paper Storage

I decided on wire wall-mounted baskets for the storage. I purchased one for each child and mounted them directly in front of their space.

Using my cameo silhouette , I cut out vinyl labels for each basket. Not only does this look nice, it designates an area for each child.

Art Display

I then selected black metal grid boards for displaying children’s artwork. The clips seemed safer than tacks, and the black grid contrasts nicely with the wall color.

Displaying kids’ artwork isn’t essential, but it supports your child and helps boost their self-esteem.

Plus, this is a playroom and the art is… art!

Arts & Craft Supplies

We brought in a three tier cart for supplies and coloring books.

I looked around my home and used what I had for storing all the art supplies. I had metal buckets left from a birthday party and then grabbed some mason jars for skinnier writing utensils.

UPDATE: The cart wasn’t a great solution for us. A few months after this post, I purchased a cube shelf from Ikea. Here’s how I organized it with all our supplies .

Homework Station Decoration

The homework station was a fun spot to decorate. I kept most of the decor black and gold, which looked great on the wall. I also tried to keep it educational-ish.

To create a cohesive look, I stained a wooden board to match the Karlby counter, then added simple black shelf brackets .

Mounting a shelf up top provides an out-of-the-way space for decor and frames the space nicely.

I added a simple letter board like this to write “encouraging” messages, a black globe ( Ikea ) that’s more decorative than educational, a geometric wire shape (Ikea), and some plastic plants in gold pots (Ikea).

Homework Station Seating

Finally, a chance to repurpose — I used chairs from tables we already had in the basement, so those were free. While they aren’t a perfect match, they are good enough for now. Maybe someday I’ll refinish them someday.

I added black seat cushions (Ikea, again!) to keep little tushies comfortable.

Homework Station Wall Art

I kept things simple on the walls. I created a few designs myself and cut heat transfer vinyl using my cameo silhouette .

I also hung a fun map of the US up on the wall. Mine is from Hobby Lobby and no longer available, but here’s a similar map with a fun look .

I found gold desk lamps at Walmart that perfectly matched the gold flower pots on the shelf. The lamps were less than $7 each, so grabbing three was an easy decision.

Homework Station: The Final Look

Overall, we spent about $350 on this space. $200 was for my best friend, Karlby, and his legs. The rest was the cart, storage baskets, grid panel, lamps, and paint. Overall, I’m very pleased with our choices, although I think if you were on a tighter budget and got more creative you could do a similar space for less money.

Using the Homework Station

We finished this project up just as school was starting in 2019. I have never seen children so excited to do their homework. All three kids happily sit here and do their homework. When homework is done, they stay and color or create art projects. This space gets quite messy, but with systems in place, it’s simple to clean up.

I think this space will be really useful for our family in the coming years. There’s room to work and room for computers, should they be needed. For now, though, we’ll stick to art projects and homework.

2020 Update: Virtual Schooling at the Homework Station

Little did we know in the summer of 2019 exactly what was in store for us in 2020. This homework station got A LOT more use than anticipated. All three children used this space regularly when schools were closed in March of 2020, although only two children used it for school.

My preschooler sits in the middle seat, so when her spot was vacant, my two older kids had space for small laptops (and headphones) and some work space in between.

Virtual Learning Modifications

To accommodate additional cords without having them in the way, we drilled two large holes in the work surface and installed desk grommets .

We had removed the Raskog cart since it wasn’t ideal for all our art supplies, but we brought it back in for virtual learning because it WAS ideal for storing books, folders, and papers.

2021 Update

My kids are in school most of the time now, however they do occasionally switch back to virtual school when the school is concerned about an outbreak. The homework station is available for them and they will often work there, however if they prefer, they may work at the kitchen table or in their bedroom, as well. The homework station still gets used daily for crafts and coloring.

Love it? Hate it? I’d love to hear from you!

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31 thoughts on “Homework Station: DIY Tutorial”

Hi Melissa, Love your homeschool space, I’m getting ready to do the same for our 4 year old. Where did you get your map? Love the look!

Thank Janelle

Thank you so much! It was from Hobby Lobby 2 or 3 years ago. I loved it the second I saw it!

Hi how do you store school materials?

Hi Michelle,

We have most of our school supplies on a cube shelf to the right of this homework station. Check out this post to see . As far as school materials like workbooks, we reused that rolling cart I had initially used for supplies to hold books. One level for each child!

I love this idea! I just quit my teaching job and will be staying home with my three children as well. We are needing to set up a space for them to do their work and I love this! Where did you find the black metal legs?

Hi Belinda! Thanks so much! The metal legs are from Ikea, as well as the table top. They have a ton of affordable build-your-own desk options so we customized this one to work for us! It was important to me that they all had their own space and the 4 table legs helped achieved this! Enjoy staying home with your littles!

Thank you so much!

Love the space! Where did you find the shelf and brackets that are above the desk area?

Thanks so much, Erin! The brackets are from Ikea, the shelf is just a board of wood I stained to (attempt) to match the desk.

Thanks for sharing! Did you get the 74 inch Karlby or the 98 inch?

We got the 74″ top. Each of the table legs are 22.5″ apart. 🙂

Hi where did you get the wall back to school calendar. I love your setup

Walmart! I think it was $6ish!

Love this space! Where did you get your if you can’t be kind be quiet and abc signs?

Thank you! I actually made it using my cameo silhouette, heat transfer vinyl and the “reverse canvas” method where you take a canvas apart, stain the frame, and then staple it back together backwards. If you search Etsy there are tons of similar options! 🙂

Hi, I love your homeschool space. It’s so inviting. I am currently making one for our 3. I also thought of buying the raskog cart and using it. I’m curious why it didn’t work for you. I’m sure we will have a similar experience.

Hi Rebekah! The top of the cart was great for holding all the writing supplies, but I couldn’t fit vertical paper dividers in the bottom two tiers, so things ended up piling up there and getting messy. Perhaps if you’re storing different items than I stored, it would work well! It wasn’t ideal for us and our papers and coloring books. I’ve switched to a Kallax cube unit and that’s been going much better. Here’s a link the blog post I wrote about it .

This space is amazing! It was exactly what I was envisioning for our space! Thank you for sharing this! Just curious, did you paint your whole room gauntlet gray? Does the room look dark?

Thank you so much! We did paint the whole room, and it doesn’t look dark, but that room gets a lot of light. There are windows on both three sides of the house there, so it’s pretty light all day. It might depend a lot on your house and your space. 🙂

Where is the shelf on the wall from? I have found everything else to recreate this look.

The shelf is actually a board of wood stained to match the counter top. The brackets are several years old, purchased at Ikea. Good luck!

Fab job👍🏽.This is gorgeous and practical! Thanks for the precise shop details and instructions! I’m inspired.

Love it! Thank you for all the details.

Thanks so much!

How much did the table cost?

The surface and legs cost about $200 overall. Links are above if you’d like to check out the specifics!

After going over a handful of the articles on your web site, I really like your way of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark webpage list and will be checking back soon. Please check out my website as well and tell me what you think.

Hi there! We’re still in the “littles” stage mostly – totally curious where you got those clear, locking storage cubes for your “prior” playroom? Thanks!

Hi Eryn! We still use them, they’re fabulous! They’re linked in this Toy Rotation Made Simple post! They’re Sterilite brand from Walmart! 🙂

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Kids' homework station ideas

We've put together our top tips for creating a comfortable, functional desk space designed to inspire your kids to study .

Choose the essentials

There are few musts when setting up a desk for a child aged 11 and over - a sturdy work surface, a lamp so eyes don't get tired from reading plus somewhere comfortable to sit. Choose a chair with adjustable height that fits in under the desk so it can be pushed away when not in use.

Use your walls

To free up the work area and keep things organised, you can always use storage on the walls .

Keep it neat

It's hard for anyone to concentrate when things get messy, but if their workstation looks cool, your child will want to keep it tidy. Desktop organisers and a tray are a good idea, which makes it easy for your child to keep things neat.

Let the light in

Why not put the desk in the middle of the room facing the window? Letting in light will give your child an energy boost when they need it.

We love to see our customers get creative with our products. Go for it! But please note that altering or modifying IKEA products so they can no longer be re-sold or used for their original purpose, means the IKEA commercial guarantees and your right to return the products will be lost.

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Children's desks   Children's desk chairs    Wall & table clocks   Paper & media boxes

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10 Homework Station Ideas Perfect for Any Home

Be prepared for the school year by giving your child a dedicated homework station. here are 10 homework station ideas that will work in any place or space in your home .

It’s hard to believe that summer is nearly over and school years are beginning. Before you know it, the school bells will be ringing and your child will be headed back to school.

Having a dedicated space to do any type of “work” is important, so it just makes sense to give that same consideration and option to your children with their own homework station!

If you’ve always wanted to create a space for them, but never knew how to get started, here are 10 homework station ideas that anyone can DIY!

10 Homework Station Ideas Perfect for Any Space

1. DIY Vintage School Desk

Who says that homework stations can’t have a bit of flair? With this DIY vintage school desk, your child will still have that “school” feel in homework space just for them. Desks like these can often be found at antique stores and thrift shops!

2. “Keep It Simple” Caddy

If having a large space for a dedicated homework station isn’t feasible, why not keep it simple with the use of a homework caddy? It’s the perfect way to store all those must-have school items in one place. With a homework caddy, you can easily transform any area into a homework station.

3.  Portable Homework Station

For many households, the start of the school year also means busy days! On days that you and your kiddos are running around, create this simple portable homework station so that they can do their schoolwork no matter where you are.

4. Dollar Store Portable Homework Station

Creating a function homework station doesn’t have to break the bank! With this inexpensive dollar store portable homework station idea, your wallet can rest easy.

5. Kids Art and Homework Station

Spruce up the look of your kiddo’s homework station with a bit of their artwork! It’ll help them feel proud of their accomplishments and give them the creativity to create more masterpieces.

6. Desk Repurposed From Cabinet Doors

If you’ve been longing for a homework station, why not make it yourself? This amazing DIY child’s desk is simple and quick to do!

7. Easy DIY Homework Station

Keeping it easy and simple is often the best way to organize a space. This easiy DIY homework station is perfect for quickly creating a space for your child to study.

8. Dresser to Desk DIY

Repurposing what you have in your home is a budget-friendly way to create an area for your child to be able to work on their homework in peace. Check out this desk made from an old dresser!

9. DIY Standing Pallet Desk

Pallets can be a great and inexpensive way to create a homework station that your child will love. The fact that this example is a standing one makes it even more unique and fun!

10. Chalk Painted Chalkboard Desk

Having a chalkboard desk as a homework station is a great way to give your child a bit of extra space to write on the surface as well. Plus, it’s just so fun!

No matter what type of homework station that you envision for your child, there are a ton of great options and ideas out there! I hope that these 10 homework station ideas sparked a bit of creativity to help make it a reality in your home.

Want more ideas for getting organized for the school year? Check out these blog posts:

• 15 Ways To Organize Your House For Back To School
• Organizing Homework With A Free Printable Assignment Tracker
• Organized Lunches Packed With Love (Free Lunch Planner & Love Note Printables)
• Create An Organized Lunch Packing Station

Struggling to get into a routine now that the school year is underway? Take the FREE 5-day Organize Your Week e-course and design an intentional weekly routine.

Have a great day!

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About the author

Emily Counts is the founder of Small Stuff Counts, a home and organization blog she created in 2013. Her goal is to help moms make home life easier so they can create beautiful, organized, and thriving homes. She shares life at home as a working mom juggling two young kids, a corporate job, and all that goes into managing a home. The Iowa-based blogger lives in the suburbs of Des Moines, Iowa, with her husband, two children, and rescue dog. Emily has collaborated with brands including The Container Store, Cricut, Command Brand, Bissell, Sam's Club and Rubbermaid.

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Love these ideas and you definitely have me inspired to figure out something for our family for this year. I’d love the idea of the vintage desks (which actually our school is having a surplus auction this weekend after they cleaned out the bus barn this summer and found old desks with ink wells that I’ve got my eye on!) but I’m not sure we really have room for that. I need to come up with a caddy of sorts though because it always seemed in the past they kids were getting up and down to get different supplies. This way it is all together and portable to wherever they’re doing their homework.

I love the idea of a homework caddy, Val! Then it won’t take up a ton of space and is easy to pull out to the kitchen island or dining room table or wherever your kids are working on homework. It would be easy to put together!

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12 Tips For Creating The Ultimate Homework Station

1. Create some easy cord control.

“I attach a small piece of wood that’s about six-inches wide underneath the desk (18 inches from the ground) to make a cord shelf,” says Roberto Gil of Casa Kids , a company that creates custom kids’ rooms and furniture. “It’s the perfect place to put the surge protector.”

2. Keep all supplies close by.

Barbara Reich, a professional organizer and author of Secrets of an Organized Mom insists that “kids should have everything they need to work without having to get up or move to get it: pencils, erasers, sharpeners, highlighters, lined paper, or graph paper. It’s much less distracting.”

3. Choose the right-size work surface.

“The desks I make for kids are 28-inches high, almost adult height but not quite,” explains Gil. “That height ensures your child won’t outgrow it, they could use it until they head off to college! If it’s a little too tall initially, use an adjustable chair.”

4. Make it easy to go mobile when needed.

“Sometimes kids want to do homework at the kitchen or dining room table. For easy clean up, stash pens, pencils, crayons or whatever they need in a supply caddy. I really love the I Could’ve Bin a Art Caddy ($22; Land of Nod ),” says Reich. “It’s easy to put everything away and stick it in a cabinet.”

5. Don’t be afraid to fit a desk wherever you can.

6. get papers organized (and out of their backpacks)., 7. it’s all about location., 8. clear clutter daily..

“Having a trash can next to the desk makes it easy to throw away garbage and odds and ends. If kids have to get up to get rid of their trash, it ends up accumulating on the desktop,” says Reich.

9. Make sure there is enough room to spread out.

10. keep the desk looking like new., 11. get into a routine..

“Make every morning easier with repetition,” says Reich. “Every night homework and papers should go right from the backpack to the table, from the table back into a folder, then back into the backpack. No more frantic searches for papers and it develops great habits that will last into adulthood.”

12. Protect the desk while kids personalize it.

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