I believe in having a clean and welcoming space in my studio, I'm convinced this helps with the learning process. I also spend a lot of time in the studio, whether I'm teaching lessons, preparing for lessons or practicing, so the space needs to be nice for me as well. It doesn't matter if you have a big space, or a very small space like my studio, I think it's important to make sure the space is conducive to learning and ensuring a successful lesson. Here is what like to do:
I make sure the space is clean. I often wipe down the space with sanitizing wipes, even the piano keys and also make sure the floors are swept and mopped.
I hate clutter so I make sure the space is clutter-free. Clutter stresses me out! Although my space is small, I like having it open as much as possible. I keep my books, supplies and copies organized.
I like having living plants in the studio. We are indoors a lot and live plants for me, lets a little bit of the outdoors in, which is calming for me and I suspect for others as well.
I have a couple of himalayan salt lamps in the studio. These lamps are supposed to "cleanse and purify the air." I can't say for sure if this is happening in my space, but what I have noticed is that there is less dust in the studio since I have had the salt lamps. Also, the slight glow from the lamps has a calming effect for me.
I love aromatherapy! I love for my studio to smell nice. My students and families often comment on the pleasant scents in the studio. My favorite for the studio are essential oils of lavender, peppermint and lemon.
I like to provide books to read and coloring pages for waiting siblings to keep them quiet and engaged. This also helps keep the student I'm working with focused on the lesson and not so distracted by their brothers or sisters. In addition, this seems to cut down on the parents "shushing" their waiting children.
Lastly, I provide water, coffee, tea and snacks. I know I can't function when I'm hungry and many are like me. Some of my students come straight from school and are "starving," so just a little granola bar and some water might do the trick. The coffee and tea are for the adults and of course me!