Description

Even in the middle of a busy day, with constant demands to meet routine caregiving needs, childcare providers want to see toddlers playing and interacting successfully with their friends and the world around them. In an engaging classroom, each learning area will invite a child to come explore even without the teacher's suggestion or guidance.

A well-arranged environment where a child plays daily or weekly can be like a friend – or even a “third teacher.” How can we create environments that welcome children to play and learn?

In this workshop, we'll use discussion, slides, group activities, and hands-on activities to explore the subject of room arrangement: how childcare providers can create an environment that encourages children to move about freely, explore, and engage. We'll discuss some environmental cues, such as a large open space vs. small, designated spaces, that can send certain messages about exploration and creativity. We'll explore a “Play Tray” demonstration together and talk about how Play Trays help children build different developmental skills. We'll also walk through the New Teacher Checklist together.

Children who benefit from well-arranged classrooms will facilitate their own learning, and enjoy developing the skills they're ready for! Join us and learn how to make your classroom engaging for all the little explorers in your care.