
Environment as the Third Teacher: Creating Responsive Early Education Environments
Wednesday, March 20th, 2024
6:00 - 9:00pm MT
Environment as the Third Teacher: Creating Responsive Early Education Environments
Wednesday, March 20th, 2024
6:00 - 9:00pm MT
This workshop is specifically designed for early childhood educators who are passionate about enriching their learning spaces to better support and engage young learners. Drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach, which views the environment as a pivotal element of learning, this session aims to empower educators to transform their classrooms into dynamic, interactive spaces that encourage exploration, discovery, and collaboration among children.
Throughout this immersive workshop, participants will explore the concept of the environment as the third teacher and how thoughtful design and organization of space can significantly impact children's learning experiences and outcomes. Educators will learn how to create responsive, inclusive, and stimulating environments that cater to the diverse needs and interests of young learners, fostering a sense of belonging, curiosity, and engagement.
Key topics will include the use of natural materials, flexible and accessible learning areas, and the integration of children's work into the classroom environment as a reflection of their learning journey. Participants will also delve into strategies for creating spaces that encourage social interaction and collaboration, as well as areas that offer quiet, contemplative moments for individual reflection and exploration.
The workshop will combine theoretical discussions with practical, hands-on activities, allowing educators to experiment with layout, materials, and documentation techniques. Through collaborative exercises and reflective discussions, participants will gain insights into how to critically assess and continually adapt their learning environments to meet the evolving needs of their students.
By the end of the session, educators will leave with a toolkit of ideas and strategies for creating responsive, engaging, and meaningful early education environments that truly serve as the third teacher, enriching the learning experiences of all children and fostering a deep, lifelong love of learning.