Quick Answer

Set up a kids' desk with hutch and chair by first choosing a quiet, well-lit spot, then assembling the desk and chair according to instructions, organizing supplies in the hutch, and establishing a daily routine to keep the homework station tidy and inviting.

Why a Dedicated Homework Station Matters

A dedicated homework station helps children focus and develop independent study habits. The Martha Stewart Kids' Desk with Hutch and Chair from Guidecraft is designed to bridge living and learning spaces, creating a child's home office area that feels both personal and organized.

Choosing the Right Location

Place the desk in a quiet corner away from high-traffic areas and TV. Ensure there is ample natural or task lighting. Avoid spots where siblings or pets might disrupt focus.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

  1. Step 1: Assemble the Desk and Chair: Follow the included instructions carefully. Use the recommended tools and check that all screws are tight. Place the desk against a wall for stability. Common mistake: skipping the chair assembly instructions can lead to wobble. Double-check all connections.
  2. Step 2: Position the Hutch: Attach the hutch to the desk top according to the manual. Ensure it is level and secure. The hutch provides vertical storage for books, notebooks, and supplies without cluttering the work surface. Checkpoint: verify that the hutch does not block natural light or the child's line of sight to the parent.
  3. Step 3: Organize Supplies by Frequency of Use: Place daily-use items (pencils, erasers, current homework) in open bins or on the desktop. Store weekly-use supplies (art materials, reference books) in the hutch shelves. Use small containers to keep like items together. Common mistake: overstuffing the hutch makes it hard to find things. Limit each shelf to one category of supplies.
  4. Step 4: Set Up a Daily Clean-Up Routine: Teach your child to clear the desktop and return supplies to the hutch after each homework session. A simple checklist or timer can help make this a habit. Checkpoint: if the desk is cluttered after one week, reduce the number of items stored on the desktop.
  5. Step 5: Personalize the Space: Let your child add a small plant, a photo, or a favorite pencil holder. Personal touches make the desk feel like their own space and increase motivation to use it. Common mistake: too many decorations can be distracting. Limit personal items to one or two small objects.

Product Facts

  • Martha Stewart Kids' Desk with Hutch and Chair: The Martha Stewart Living and Learning Kids’ Collection by Guidecraft creates a bridge between living and learning spaces, pioneering the concept of a child’s home office space. This desk set is purpose-built for homework, not just a scaled-down adult desk, so it includes kid-friendly storage and proportions that encourage independent use.

    Martha Stewart Kids' Desk with Hutch and Chair

    Martha Stewart Kids' Desk with Hutch and Chair