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White Hutchinson Leisure & Learning Group, Kansas City, MO, USA

What Makes Space Work?

"Space" was the focus of the "Beginnings Workshop" in the January 2004 issue of Child Care Information Exchange. As a follow-up to the articles, early childhood professionals across the country were asked:

1. What are the elements of space that work in early childhood program settings?
2. How do you know if a space is not working?
3. Do you have a story to share about space that did or didn't work?

My favorite of the 33 pages submitted from early childhood professionals all over the United States and Canada was written by Cindy Peterson, a behavior specialist for Eastern Washington University. The following is from her booklet, which she uses to explain to teachers how the behavior of children is connected to the physical space they are in:

"Children need physical structure.

• Guidance begins with the flow of the room.
• Children are nurtured by small spaces designed for one, two or three children.
• Children need tables and chairs for gatherings of four to six children.

Children learn through their physical environment.

• Too many colors and busy decorations may over-stimulate, distract or agitate some children.
• Create large areas of blank wall-space to calm children and draw attention to the learning displays.
• Change furniture arrangements one center at a time to maintain consistency.

Children need a peaceful place to relax.

• Coping with an abundance of other children in a contained space is stressful.
• Too many toys, too many kids and too many directions can feel overwhelming.

Children are learning to manage their emotions.

• Provide comfortable home furniture and plenty of time think, reflect and wonder.
• Create private spaces where individuals can play and create without disturbance.
• Time alone sometimes helps children relax enough to overcome negative feelings.

Children are sensitive learners.

• Noise and confusion can cause thought processes to shut down.
• Quiet play is thoughtful play."

To download all of the comments on "What Makes Space Work," go to
www.ChildCareExchange.com. Under the Training Resource Tab, go to
What Makes Space Work.

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