The Learning Environment part two

I spoke with Wendy about rearranging the room and we both discussed our ideas and needs. The furniture has been rearrange, and I placed shelving at a right-angle to the wall, and placed the sofa as a third wall to create another area. This has already proved itself to be popular with the children. We've used it for animal play, story-time with velcro characters on the wall, etc. The rocking chair swapped places with the armchair, creating a softer corner which will be a suitable area for the younger children. A lot of the toys that were in the room have been sorted and put away. We had found that there were so many toys out at one time that they would end up everywhere. I am of the opinion that if children have too much choice then they can become over stimulated and not focus on anything. This way, we have toys displayed on the shelves which children can choose from, and also provide more 'focus' pieces of equipment. For example, yesterday and today we brought out metal bowls, plates, ladels and spoons - items that made amazing sounds when banged together. It was brought to my attention that by placing the sofa where it was, this was creating a blind-spot in the room. I replaced the sofa with two low carpeted room dividers, but after trialing these, decided against them. I noticed that as children leaned against them for support, they were prone to sliding forwards, and they didn't seem as asthetically pleasing as the sofa. So the sofa returned and the staff will need to position themselves appropriately. I will continue to monitor and check in with Wendy (and Sharron next week when she returns).

The Learning Environment

This week a new child started in Nursery one. He is five months and is immobile. At the same time, there are two boys who are currently real explorers. If there is an open door, they are there. If there is a toy they want, they will make their way to it - regardless of whether something or someone is in their way or not. Pippa and I have decided to take another look at the set up of the room, and possibly rearrange the furniture/equipment in order to create a safe, calm area for young Charlie, whilst still providing exploration opportunities for Jack and Dylan. Through looking at this situation pro-actively, I believe I will be creating an environment of respect and understanding, I will manage the behaviour positively, and I will establish a safe physical and emotional environment.