Classroom Design - NextGen Spaces

Solutions: Pre-K

Written by Alicia Springer, M.Ed.

Listen to article:

QUALITY PRESCHOOL CLASSROOMS

ARE WELL-PLANNED.

Early learners learn through play and communication. The environment should spark their imagination, inviting learning through exploration and collaboration. Reconfigurable spaces are safe and secure and need to meet the demands of a dynamic and active environment. 

177278-Artcobell-Mobile Cubbie_AMTC4-ASCL-6048_SINGLE FACE COAT LOCKER_Env_01

As you design your classrooms, think about how the space will function, how it supports the students' learning outcomes, and how it will make students feel. Here are some questions to help guide your discussions: Download the planning guide.

FC-LESTER-CRAWL-053B

 

 

helpful links to CLASSROOM DESIGN TRENDS

 

 

EXPLORE CLASSROOM SETUP IDEAS

Click through classroom ideas below or visit our image gallery of learning spaces designed to promote comfort, configurability, mobility, and accessibility in a variety of classroom environments.

 

social interactions

SOCIAL INTERACTIONS

Sitting on the floor encourages social interaction among children. It facilitates collaborative learning, group discussions, and cooperative play, fostering social skills and teamwork.

tables that promote social interaction

LARGE WORK SURFACES THAT PROMOTE SOCIAL INTERACTION

Large activity tables provide a communal space where children can sit together and engage in collaborative activities. This fosters social interaction, communication, and the development of social skills, which are essential for early childhood development.

muscle development

MUSCLE DEVELOPMENT

Movement seating encourages activities that involve large muscle groups, such as rocking, bouncing, or swaying. These activities contribute to the development of gross motor skills, coordination, and balance.

enhance focus + attention with movement seating

ENHANCE FOCUS + ATTENTION WITH MOVEMENT SEATING

Many preschoolers have abundant energy, and Artcobell MOV Stools allows them to release some of that energy in a controlled and constructive way. This can lead to increased focus and attention during other seated activities, as children have an outlet for their natural need to move.

tables for teachers

TABLES FOR TEACHERS

Replacing a traditional teacher desk in favor of large activity table symbolizes a more inclusive teaching approach. It communicates that the learning space is shared, and the teacher is an active participant in the learning process alongside the students.

small or large groups

SMALL OR LARGE GROUPS

Look for tables that can be reconfigured for different needs: pair Expanse + Nebula Shape tables to flex small groups from 2 to 12 by mixing and matching.

See how Shape Tables can work together.

huddle spaces

"HUDDLE" SPACES

Create a zone where small groups of students can learn and play together in a safe and secure way.  Use FLOT chairs and a crescent table at floor height to maintain structure. 

mix up heights

MIX UP HEIGHTS

Movement is important to increase respiration and blood flow.  Use floor seating and reduced height work surfaces to encourage floor work.

Look at other floor seating options.


 

accessible storage

Fostering independence and self-confidence, children need to be able to easily access materials and supplies.  Storage should be at eye level. Click through the gallery below to view some additional storage solutions for your preschoolers.

 

furniture that fits

FURNITURE THAT FITS

Choose furniture that is appropriately sized for young children, allowing them to comfortably engage in activities. Opt for open shelving and clear bins to help children easily see and access toys and materials.

stay organized

STAY ORGANIZED

Assign each child their own cubby or locker for storing personal items, such as jackets, backpacks, and artwork.

maker space

DESIGNATED MAKER SPACE

Create a dedicated area within the classroom for the maker space activities. This can be a corner with tables, shelves, and storage for materials.

storage at eye level

MOBILE CARTS

Consider using rolling carts with trays or bins to organize and transport materials between different maker space stations. This provides flexibility and allows for easy cleanup.

gather spot

GATHERING SPOT

Use open shelves to store frequently used materials such as blocks, art supplies, and construction materials. Open shelving allows easy visibility and access for both teachers and students.

See more storage products.

personalized storage

COAT + BACKPACK LOCKER

Provide individual storage spaces for each child to keep their belongings.

 

artcobell_ColorInspirationCLASSROOM DESIGN MATTERS

Selecting the right furniture for preschool classrooms is essential for creating a safe, comfortable, and engaging learning environment that supports the diverse needs of young learners. It contributes to the overall success of the educational experience and lays the foundation for positive attitudes toward learning.

Dec 5, 2023

Get News Sent to Your Inbox

We respect your inbox & only send helpful content.

Subscribe to Email Updates