By NOXOLO MIYA
Those with children of school-going age will know that November is filled with exam stress and deadline pressures.
Creating a quiet, distraction-free space in the home can not only help them through this stressful season, but it could also add value to the home.
"Homes with a study space are in high demand following the pandemic. Whether the space is used for those who work remotely or for their children as a dedicated homework station and study space, having a secluded room in the home can be a good value addition to any home," says regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, Adrian Goslett.
RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares the following tips to help homeowners prepare their homes for exam season:
Dedicate a room to studying
According to research, a person's bedroom should only be used for sleeping to promote good sleeping habits. A lack of sleep leads to lowered concentration and a reduced ability to retain information, so a child’s ability to study can improve simply by giving them their own study space in the home. If budget allows, add a room or renovate an existing space to form a dedicated study at home, or look for homes with a separate designated study area.
Fix lighting and ventilation
Air quality, ventilation, and lighting can all contribute to a better learning environment. Poorly lit rooms can cause strain on the eyes when reading, which could cause a child to grow tired quicker. The brain uses about three times as much oxygen as muscles in the body do, which is why rooms without good ventilation can reduce a child’s learning capacity. Remove any large trees or bushes that may be obstructing natural light or ventilation in the study. Replace small windows or faulty windows that can no longer open. Upgrade the lighting fixtures to make sure the room has adequate lighting.
Minimise distractions
Think about how many distractions the room in question might have and do your best to manage them. If the room is too close to the noisiest rooms in the home, then it might be worth sound-proofing the room or upgrading the room’s insulation by adding rugs and other sound-dampening decor.
The Star