{"id":1182,"date":"2014-01-19T02:06:56","date_gmt":"2014-01-19T02:06:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hordinerconsulting.com\/?page_id=1182"},"modified":"2018-10-21T03:19:29","modified_gmt":"2018-10-21T03:19:29","slug":"environment","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/hordinerconsulting.com\/?page_id=1182","title":{"rendered":"Environment"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"914\"<\/a><\/p>\n

An environment speaks.\u00a0 It sends messages that reflect what we value.\u00a0 \u00a0These messages, in turn, <\/strong>influence how others see us, how they feel and behave, and even what they believe<\/strong>.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0 <\/strong>Whether we are educators in a classroom or parents at home, we need to examine the messages our environment sends.\u00a0 Do the messages reflect who we are and who we wish to be?\u00a0 This kind of intentionality lies at the heart of education.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"924\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Space: <\/strong>Setting Up an Appropriate and Engaging Classroom<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The way we set up a classroom deserves careful attention.\u00a0 From the orientation of shelving, to the quality and display of materials, to the path of entry and flow of traffic \u2013 our space impacts us at many levels.\u00a0 Our main concern needs to be modifying and creating a space that reflects our values and goals.<\/p>\n

Space influences how we feel and think about ourselves<\/em>.\u00a0 Paint stored out of reach of young children may send an unintended message \u201cI do not trust you with paint\u201d or \u201cI am not ready to give you that kind of independence\u201d. \u00a0Or, for example, a cozy area with pillows and curtains is likely to send a message: \u201cThis is your home, and you can relax and have quiet time when you need.\u201d<\/p>\n

Space influences how we think and learn.\u00a0 <\/em>A classroom should be suited to the age, ability, and interest of all children.\u00a0 It should be challenging, but not too challenging, for engagement is generally a function of an appropriate level of challenge.\u00a0 Challenging behavior or disengagement may reflect an environment that is either too challenging or not challenging enough.<\/p>\n

Space influences how we act and relate to others.<\/em>\u00a0 A classroom with a large common space or with large tables will encourage collaboration.\u00a0 A classroom with photographs of the children interacting with one another will encourage and reinforce budding friendships.<\/p>\n

When creating or modifying a space, there are seven basic considerations to keep in mind:<\/p>\n