This journey begins with a transformation. A transformation not only of thinking, but of the environment in which we spend our days together.
In their book, Designs for Living and Learning, Deb Curtis and Margie Carter state that, "You must act with intention to make your beliefs about the value of children, childhood, family, community, and the learning and teaching process visible in the environments you create for children." They go on to say, "If the environment is designed to be another teacher in the program, then your work as a teacher is not only easier, but it engages more of your own creativity and learning."
Well, who wouldn't want to make their work as a teacher easier, while simultaneously engaging their own creativity and learning? Count me in!
I have long been a fan of primary colors in my classroom. I mean, that is what kindergarten is all about, right? Red, blue, yellow; A, B, C; 1, 2, 3 and all that. It has served me well and I have always received compliments on my classroom environment. However, this past year I moved into a new classroom and while the primary color scheme was cute, it has definitely run its course. In addition, I have been reading a lot about emergent curriculum and Reggio Emilia inspired classrooms. It is definitely time for a transformation!
With school out for the summer, it is the perfect time to make a change. Here are some pictures of different areas of the classroom BEFORE I began my classroom transformation.
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| Morning Routine Chart and Sign In Area |
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| Free Choice Storage |
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| Art Easel and Nonfiction Book Area |
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| Science Display Shelves |
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| Picture Book Bins |
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| Math Wall |
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| Writing Folders and Portfolios |
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| Large Group Space |
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| Lego Table |
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| Books on Cd |
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| Blocks Area |
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| Student Browsing Boxes and Dramatic Play Area |
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| More Books |
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| Calendar Area |
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| Small Group Meeting Space |
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| Word Wall |
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| Student Cubby Area |
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| Storage Cupboards |
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| Snack Shelf and Job Chart |
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| Sink Outside Bathroom |
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| Quiet Choice Activities |
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| Charts |
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| Teacher Space |
I can't wait to see what you do with your classroom!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Suzy! I started by simplifying--and boy, does that feel good!
DeleteMichele, I have also been reading about Montessori and Reggio philosophies. I have been slowly working to transform my room into the third teacher, but due to funds, work has been slow. Glad to see you are also doing this!
ReplyDeleteI am very excited to begin this process. Thankfully, Molly, our ACP projects include a budget, which will help me with the transformation. You should check into it.
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