The Perfect Learning Environment for Your Preschooler (page 2)

Is your preschooler particular about their space? Find out what a typical preschooler wants in their perfect learning environment.

What You Need To Know

The preschool environment is one that should cater to the social, emotional and intellectual needs of a 3-5 year old. Just as your child wants a princess or pirate poster hanging on their wall there are things they also want from their classroom environment.

Here are some of the things typical preschoolers want in their surroundings:

• A Beautiful Classroom – inviting and attractive with walls painted neutral or light pastel with colored pictures or materials on the walls.
• Orderly Classroom - materials should be arranged and coded so that everything has a place.
• Areas For Social Experiences - The classroom should provide a variety of spaces for small or large group activities.
• A Homey Feel/Lots of Tables  – An area that feels like an extension of their home with tables for art or snack..

How You Can Help

When choosing a preschool make sure it is an environment that supports learning and creativity. Here are some things that should surround your child in the classroom or even at home.

• Blocks - Every preschool classroom should have a block area. Try to incorporate duplos or mega bloks in their play space at home. Block play helps develop imagination, creativity and mathematical and spatial concepts.
• Pretend Play – Provide a space and equipment for imaginative play. Housekeeping equipment, a dress-up corner, a mirror, a telephone, baby dolls and dishes are basic requirements.
• Space Consideration: A classroom or home space should be arranged to make it easy for children to be considerate. Noisy areas for music and block play while pretend play should be in quiet areas, such as the library corner.
• New Concepts - Allow for areas of experimenting. Show how a sponge can soak up water or investigate a rock under a magnifying glass.
• Manipulative play - Sewing cards, puzzles and peg boards are great for teaching coordination and sorting skills.
• Art and Music - Use a CD player in the classroom or at home to expose your child to various genres of music. An easel or whiteboard can help develop artistic ability.

No matter at home or at school. A great preschooler’s space brings out the best in them.