In learning-centered areas, the physical environment helps children understand how to use the space. Although the environment can be a teaching tool, in many ways, it serves as a teacher's assistant, as well. The layout of a learning space, the materials available in that space and the teacher's management of the environment all serve as an invitation for children to move, participate and react in predictable ways.
Play-Based Spaces
The best learning environment for children is a child-centered, play-based one. Demonstrate to children that the space is theirs by displaying pictures of the children and their families, as well as samples of their artwork. In "Play," professional child care trainer and author Lisa Murphy stresses that "Play is the foundation for future school success."
Children learn best through hands-on activities that involve all five senses. Structure your learning environment so that children can move freely between activities at their own pace. Murphy adds that rigid learning programs that focus on accumulating skills through means such as worksheets, computers, memorization and flashcards lead to "stressed, high-strung, aggressive and depressed" students later on. Play-based environments emphasize social and emotional development that Murphy says enables children to excel academically, communicate effectively with teachers and peers and develop problem-solving skills.
Balanced Activities
Children learn best when offered a balance between structured and unstructured activity. During free play, children should have the freedom to choose where to play and what to play with. The learning environment serves as an invitation at all times.
Make sure that all accessible materials are age-appropriate and safe, and be prepared to allow the children to use those materials as they move around in the space. Provide enough materials so that several children can play in the same area at once. Avoid time limits during free play.
Allow time each day for structured play or activities. Whether you're following a theme or teaching about an animal or culture the children have expressed an interest in, make sure the group activity engages as many of the five senses as possible.
For example, if today is "A" day, you might bring several colors of apples to the activity space. Talk about the colors with the children and allow each child to smell the apple. Cut the apple and give slices from each variety to each child. Invite the children to sample the apple and describe the way if feels, smells and tastes. You might also prepare a dish using the apples from the activity, talk about the seeds and plant an apple tree.
Practical Considerations
The best learning environments have well-defined spaces. If you have a long, open space through the middle of the room, you're inviting children to run, skip or hop through that space. Designate areas for reading, dramatic play, art, music and movement, science and math by using rugs, tables, screens, lofts, bookcases, furniture and nooks. Scholastic recommends that you provide both well-lit and dimly-lit areas, informal furniture arrangements and separate spaces designated for quiet and active play.
References
- "Play"; Lisa Murphy; 2009
- Scholastic: Classroom Organization: The Physical Environment
