Preschool Classroom Layout

I think the ideal preschool classroom is a warm, cozy place that makes students feel comfortable and welcome. The students should have some type of locker or shelves, to store their personal items in the classroom and facilitate independence. There would be plenty of room for students to move about freely, and also for students who may have physical impairments to move around the room. In the classroom, I would have a reading center, a place for dramatic play, a literacy center, science and math center, and an art center. I would keep the room colorful and have instructional signs up where students may need it. (For example, to remind them to wash their hands or put away toys).

Reading Center

I think a reading center should be a cozy and inviting place that allows children to curl up with a book and encourages reading. I would also have a rocking chair or big comfy chair in the area for myself to sit and read to the children, and engage in group story time.

Dramatic Play Center

I would also have a dramatic play center. It's important for children to be able to express themselves and use their imaginations. 

Literacy Center

For a preschool literacy center, I think it's important to have large letters displayed to encourage early literacy. Simple sentences should be posted and read to the students. There should also be paper, pencils, and crayons, to encourage students to write during free play.

Science/Math Center

Science centers should be a fun, exciting place for children to be and should encourage questioning and exploration. 

My math center would have manipulatives and and numbers displayed for students to use to learn how to count. 

Art Center

The art center would have things like paint brushes, crayons, markers, and an easel for students to draw on. It would also have safety scissors to allow students to practice their skill with cutting something out. 

Music Center

I think that music centers are often overlooked as an option in classrooms, but I think music is great for child development. A music center should have items like drums, a tambourine, and a cd player. It may be best to utilize this center during full class activities. 

Classroom Environment

There will be lockers that are available for storage for the children. This will foster independence and responsibility. 

Overall, my classroom will be a fun place that facilitates learning. It will be a colorful place, that students will enjoy being in for a long period of time. It will be a safe, comfortable place for students to learn in.