Caring for School-Age Children Chapter 9 Creating an Environment Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
The Environment Enhances Development Indoor and outdoor environments provide opportunities for developing gross- and fine-motor skills A developmentally appropriate environment supports cognitive and social skill development Small group activities foster friendships Students can refer back to chapters 4, 5, and 6 to review development. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. Developing the Plan Observe how and where children play Consider the characteristics of the children Plan with the program goals in mind DAP must also be considered when developing the plan. Ask students to think about how the above statements must also include the three aspects of DAP. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Design of the Indoor Space Make space attractive and homelike Use furniture to set specific activity areas Use areas consistently for the same purpose Leave pathways for easy access Place quiet areas near each other and more noisy active areas together Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. What to Include Adequate space for movement Places for individual and group projects Space for each child’s belongings Room for messy activities near water supply Quiet areas for reading, resting, talking with friends Large area for group gatherings Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. Homework area Display areas Adequate storage Special place for older children Space for clubs to meet Activity areas for art, science, writing, construction, dramatic play, reading, games Students can work in teams to design an indoor space complete with identified centers. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. Shared Indoor Space Work with other space occupants Store materials for center activities in baskets or boxes Install casters on dividers, shelves, and cupboards Use carpet pieces to define an activity area Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. Outdoor Space Often shared space Adequate space for organized games Appropriate size for children Safe equipment Place for play with balls, jump ropes, etc. Must meet safety standards There are various outdoor play equipment companies that give free materials as aides to outdoor planning. Materials may be requested prior to this lesson. Students can visits child care centers, parks, or school to critique their outdoor space. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. Personal Reflection Recall how you played as a child. What did you enjoy in an outdoor environment? Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved.