the classroom environment

[Meredith Gaines]

I would love to hear and see pictures of what others have done to set up their classroom environment. Last year I tried to incorporate more natural pieces into my classroom as I am just a novice in this arena. I added flowy pieces of fabric to section off the dramatic play area, curtains by the windows with chiffon (sp?), covered the metal cabinets in my room with wood contact paper, etc. However, I'm struggling to find ways to store things. I know baskets are nice, any other ideas? What about pretty things like crystals or jewels? Any suggestions are appreciated!

[Marianne Cane]

I hope you do go, Abbey. I had never been to Italy before I went to Reggio Emilia. There is something so profound in being in a city that values children as an important part of the community and is willing to spend money and advocate politically for the rights of young children. The schools are really interesting, the ReMida center is inspiring, and the food is wonderful. There is so much to think about, particularly revolving around the image of a strong, competent child.

[Abbey Daniels]

I am actually attempting to make an area with wood and knobs for weaving and an area for hanging a variety of items onto in the classroom i teach in that will create thought, creativity, and thinking in new ways...cannot wait to see it finished and find out how the children work in the focus areas....

[Marianne Cane]

My children enjoyed 'the mobile machine,' a pulley that allowed us to put work in progress up a ceiling level to save it for the next day. They liked moving the rope up and down as much as they liked the mobile work. You only have to wire two pulleys to the drop ceiling (if you have one); one at the corner of the wall and ceiling, and one above where the children will work. You need to screw a cleat into the wall to wrap the rope, and you need to tie a ring to the end of the rope to hang the mobiles. I think it costs about three dollars for all the hardware.

[Abbey Daniels]

Here are three pictures of a new manipulative piece i added to my classroom of toddlers (18-36 month olds)....it is a big hit...

[Bridget]

Seashells are a great touch! I just did a light table set up in which I brought shells that the children chose to the photocopier and copied their shells onto transparent paper. Then I put the image on the light table and the shells in pockets around them. Then they were able to match the shells to the paper. Very cool. We also have a bamboo curtain that separates the room and adds a natural touch.

[Marianne Cane]

I love this idea! We did an investigation of trees last year, and I could definitely have used that game.