Study: One in three Lithuanian students lack a desk for homework

As the school year approaches, a new study highlights a significant challenge facing Lithuanian families: providing adequate study spaces for children. The research reveals that one in three school-aged children in Lithuania lacks a dedicated desk for homework, impacting their ability to establish routines and focus.

According to the study, only 67% of children have their own desk. An additional 28% have a designated place to study, but it's not their own desk, and 5% of children do their homework in whatever space is available at the time. For those without a personal desk, common alternative study locations include their bedroom (14%), the living room (7%), or the kitchen table (5%).

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When a child does not have a stable, adapted place to study, they have to look for a place to do homework every day – at the kitchen table, in the living room, or wherever is free at the time. A permanent study space is not just a matter of convenience; it helps the child create a routine and concentrate more calmly.

Liubovė Aleksandra Zaiceva, Communications Manager for "Senukai" in the Baltic States, noted that for many families, the challenge extends beyond just providing a desk or chair; it involves finding a quiet space conducive to concentration. "When a child does not have a stable, adapted place to study, they have to look for a place to do homework every day – at the kitchen table, in the living room, or wherever is free at the time. A permanent study space is not just a matter of convenience; it helps the child create a routine and concentrate more calmly," she explained.

The study also indicates that younger families face greater spatial constraints. Children of parents aged 25–34 are less likely to have their own desk (57%) or a separate room (59%) compared to children of older parents. A significant 35% of children from younger families share a room with siblings, a much higher rate than in older age groups. "Younger families often have to creatively use the available home space and balance the needs of all family members. Therefore, practical solutions that can grow with the child are especially important for them," Zaiceva added.

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Younger families often have to creatively use the available home space and balance the needs of all family members. Therefore, practical solutions that can grow with the child are especially important for them.