Physical Space Supports Self-management

The professional working with young children arranges and facilitates the use of the physical space and materials in ways that support healthy development, self-management, and cooperation

Resources & Media for Understanding Competency 4.7

Behaviors & Skills

• a
  Elicits children's input about room arrangement and materials
  
  
• b
  Designs the environment so that each child has a space for personal items to ensure his/her sense of belonging and security within the community
  
  
• c
  Ensures that walkways as well as gathering and work spaces have enough room for children to move and interact comfortably
  
  
• d
  Sets clear boundaries in the physical environment that help children know where centers begin and end
  
  
• e
  Separates noisy centers from quieter ones to help children concentrate
  
  
• f
  Places furniture so that various seating arrangements can be used: individual, small group, whole group
  
  
• g
  Includes a space for large muscle activity and movement
  
  
• h
  Designs a space for children to "cool off" or to be alone
  
  
• i
  Intentionally selects materials that foster discovery, inquiry, imagination, and creativity, and that actively support a variety of goals
  
  
• j
  Labels materials (when useful to children) using pictures and words, and places them so that children can access them independently
  
  
• k
  Includes input from families and observes children to identify children's favorite toys/materials in order to encourage engagement and interaction
  
  
• l
  Regularly evaluates the amount/number, relevance, and types of materials available as they relate to children's interests, development, level of stimulation, and curriculum content. Adds or removes materials as necessary
  
  
• m
  Adapts materials to accommodate for children with special needs