Do we need a desk?

[Anonymous]

We are in the process of redecorating our office. We have a large desk that used to house our desktop computer (complete with the cabinet for the tower). All it does now is collect dust. I can’t remember the last time anyone sat there to do work. I’m thinking of getting rid of the desk altogether, and making it a more cozy reading room.

Our DD is only 7, and she has a tiny desk in her room that suits her now, but I’m wondering if we should get a desk for the office, so she has someplace to work when she’s older.

Where does your tween/teen do their homework? In their room? At the kitchen table? Or in your office?

Also, do you use your office desk?

[Anonymous]

My kids did homework at the kitchen or dining room table up until about grade 9. Then they started using a desk in their room.

My DH has a desk in his small office that he actually uses for work. I use a laptop when I have to do office or home tasks, and just set up wherever it's convenient. I do keep a drawer with office supplies in a credenza in our living room.

[Anonymous]

We set up a small desk for our son as a section of a bookcase - maybe 2 1/2 feet wide by 2 feet deep. Now in middle school, he uses the kitchen table because he typically has his textbook open plus a notebook, so needs to spread out more. It doesn't have to be a desk, but anticipate giving her some area that's big enough to spread out at least 5-6 sheets of regular 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper.

[Anonymous]

I have an 8 year old and a 4 year old and about a year ago set up a desk in our office - not so much for paper/written homework which would get done at the kitchen table, but for a family computer which gets ueed for homeowkr and research. We are in FCPS and some years teachers have given electronic homework, but also to research or look up things. Something to consider.

[Anonymous]

We use our desk, but it's not huge. Out computer lives there, and it's next to the filing cabinet where we keep records. It's where we pay our bills. I think it's worth having some kind of desk, but you could look for something that folds up against the wall when not in use, or a desk with a smaller footprint.

[Anonymous]

I had a desk growing up but did all my homework sitting on my bed or at the kitchen table if it was something I needed help with.

I'd get rid of the desk and make it a reading room like you want until the issue of where to do homework arises further down the line. You may find that she's fine just using the kitchen table 99% of the time which would make putting a desk back in there not worthwhile.

[Anonymous]

I don't think you necessarily need a desk, but if you get one, I highly recommend putting it in the middle of the room. Wheels are great. I don't like a desk that faces a wall.