1. Caring for School-Age Children
Chapter 9
Creating an Environment
Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning.
All Rights Reserved.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.