Setting Up for a New Year

If you are like me your room is always a work in progress.  New things get added or old ways just plain old did not work!  You are always working and reworking your canvas.   

This year I have had several big elements added to my classroom environment that has landing me back to my classroom design map. 

New element number one Smart Board which was installed in my block area.  Yes you heard that right the block area for whatever reason the Tec department said that it had to go there do to wiring. 

New element number two a classroom loft.  Love it but!  There always has to be a but right.  Yes I have a large room why not, however I have lots of obstacles in my classroom to make this large element work.  I have lots of doors going in and out everywhere.  Also I have large support posts all along the walls about every 8 feet.  So with all of that being said it just can't go any old place.  The where is the big question know because once you move one thing it changes the flow of everything!

So Hi Ho Hi Ho it's off to the design map I go.

I have a class map that shows all of my classroom elements that will never change.  Carpeted areas, larger attached furniture, sink, windows and doors are marked on the map.  (this map is laminated) 

I also have all of my class furniture that can be moved around cut and colored into individual pieces.  (laminated pieces)

Next I think about all of the learning centers that I would like to have?

This way I can move things around until I find the right combination.

Taking into considerations

*Noise levels of centers (I don't want my book nook next to dramatic play or blocks)
*Centers that encourage group interactions
*Area for children to be alone
*Long empty spaces (that would say to a child hey look at me RUN)
*Can I view centers if sitting and working with children at a table
*Is there any space that a child can get in and hide from staff

Once I have it laid out how I want it I tape down all of the pieces. 

Now it's time for the big move.

If I change anything as I move the room around from what I had it on my map I will then make that change on my map as well.  When everything is done and where we want it.  I make a copy of my map and give it to our custodian so that when he moves the room for yearly cleaning he knows where to put all the furniture back to.

Tomorrow we will be moving the classroom around so that the loft can be installed!

The big reveal coming soon

If you are looking for away to keep up on your classroom canvas that is always moving and changing with the needs of the children, then look no further here is a classroom design workbook.  This workbook will help you keep up with all of your ideas for that wonderful magical place.  

Learning and Teaching with Preschoolers

Teachers Pay Teachers

Teachers Notebook

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