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Learning Environments

Learning environments are nurturing spaces that support the development of all young children. They include classrooms, play spaces, areas for caregiving routines, and outdoor areas. Learning environments are well-organized and managed settings. They offer developmentally appropriate schedules, lesson plans, and indoor and outdoor chances for choice, play, exploration, and experimentation. Learning environments include age-appropriate equipment, materials, and supplies. They integrate home cultures and are flexible to support the changing ages, interests, and characteristics of a group of children over time. In home-based programs, the learning environment includes the home, community, and group socialization spaces.

Managing the Classroom: Designing Environments

Discover features of the physical and social classroom environment that can maximize children's engagement and learning. Learn to assess the physical space and match classroom content to learning goals and interests.

Outdoor Play Benefits

Learn about some of the health benefits and get ideas for fun outdoor activities!

Creating Outdoor Spaces

Early Head Start teachers and home visitors may use this resource to set up spaces for families using community resources such as parks, gardens, and nearby schools.

Nature Club Toolkit for Families

The purpose of this toolkit is to provide inspiration, information, tips and resources for those who are—or who might be—interested in creating a Nature Club for Families.

Learning at Home and Homelike Environments

This resource will teach home visitors, program staff, caregivers and other early childhood educators how to create a space that is welcoming and homelike for children.

Play Space Assessment for Preschool

This tool helps to identify the strengths and needs of an existing play space, and serves as a basis for setting priorities and planning enhancements and improvements.