Classroom layouts . . . and behavior

- Post 3 of 3 on preschool classroom management strategies

 

     In order to discuss the differences in classroom layouts, it is helpful to see some examples of a classroom layouts.  In setting up or modifying your classroom environment, it is important to consider the children in your classroom.   That said, let's talk about some of benefits and drawbacks of these two layouts.

Areas for Improvement

•    In the top photo you see a very open classroom layout.  In preschool classrooms, wide open spaces mean room to run.  If you are using the phrase "walking feet" a lot during the day, it is a good idea to evaluate the layout of your classroom As a rule, it is good to have uncluttered walking paths, and well defined interest centers
•  In the top photo, the displays are very high and placed above the block shelf.  There would be no opportunity for the children to participate in calendar.  Preschool children have a limited attention span so it is important to incorporate as many opportunities for participation as possible.  Here is a good example of an eye level display that children helped to make.

• In the bottom photo, the quiet space and noisy spaces are next to each other.  Generally, when children go to a quiet space to take a break.  If a child is trying to enjoy a book quietly, or just calm down, you don't want to have them right next to a noisy group of block builders. (For children with sensory needs, this can cause behaviors) It's best practice to put the library space and quiet spaces together.

• In the bottom photo, their are standard house items in the dramatic play area.  To keep this area interesting for all children, it is important to incorporate a variety or themes.  (For some great dramatic play idea, see Pinterest) 

• Note:  The standard house theme is enjoyable for all kids.  (My boys loved playing house when they were little)  This suggestion was just for the rotation of themes.  This helps to keep the area fresh and interesting as well as supports literacy development. 

 This theme is one of my favorites

Benefits to the layouts

• In the top photo, there is a commercial circle time rug that will allow you to separate the children onto spots.  These commercial rugs can get very expensive so some inexpensive alternatives that teachers use are poly spots (Available from Discount School Supply or Amazon) and carpet squares.  (You can pick up from School Supply stores or flooring stores)
• In the top photo, the commercial circle rug allows a lot of space for gross motor movement during circle time.  A space to incorporate some music & movement during circle time is great for getting the wiggles out, especially on rainy days.  When open space limited to your circle time time area, it can serve as a solution to a problem
• The bottom photo has more defined interest areas and no wide open "running spaces."  This space has a few awkward areas, (like the blocks up against the dramatic play area) but it has nice walking path layout.

     In any classroom layout that you design, there are going to be benefits and drawbacks.  Ultimately, as a teacher, you will change and add things until you get it right for the the group of children you are teaching. 

    

Next post . . . an example of a project theme I have use with ideas for each interest center
To be followed by . . .  a series on sensory strategies for each area of the classroom