Through a Child’s Eyes: How Classroom Design Inspires Learning & Wonder

Speaker:

Sandra Duncan, EdD

Children are miracles. Believing that every child is a miracle can transform the way we design for children’s care. When we invite a miracle into our lives, we prepare ourselves and the environment around us . . . We make it our job to create, with reverence and gratitude, a space that is worthy of a miracle! Anita Rui Olds, Child Care Design.

Classroom design is a crucial component of an effective learning environment. This presentation will help you understand the basic tenants of classroom design, which are (1) Honor children first and foremost; (2) Cherish children’s spaces; (3) Celebrate the spirit of the place; and, (4) Create islands of balance and beauty.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Distinguish and define the difference between space and place
2. Explain the importance of designing classrooms reflective of place.
3. Describe the connection between classroom beauty and children’s learning.
4. List at least three strategies for including design elements which enhance children’s beauty and wonder.