How Should a Preschool Classroom Be Equipped?
Preschool classrooms are full of fun, colorful, educational toys and games to maximize the education of children. From furniture to craft materials, some items are necessities. Continue reading for all of the essential things that a preschool classroom needs.
Classroom Furniture
A preschool classroom needs to have furniture that is easily accessible by both students and teachers. Children have longer attention spans when they are seated properly, so table and chair height is very important. Children should be seated with feet flat on the floor, a ninety-degree bend at the hips, and a straight back. Usually, a table should be 8 inches higher than the chairs. Typically this translates into chair heights of 10 to 12 inches, and table heights of 18 to 20 inches.
Music Center
Children learn through movement and play, and music is a great means of exploration. Bear Paw Creek music therapy props are great additions to any music center. Listening to music, playing with instruments, and dancing to the beat of the music give students a great way to learn. Rhythm scarves, hula-hoops, and other props make the center even more fun.
Craft Supplies
Arts and crafts are always fun with preschoolers. Crayons, paper, paint, glue, and scissors allow children to create and make crafts to take home to their parents. When painting, children love to have a variety of brushes, including rollers and paintbrushes. Easels, aprons, and newspapers also come in handy when children are making art projects. When creating, children love to have a variety of papers to choose from, including construction paper, cardstock, crepe paper, tissue paper, and even cellophane. Supplies such as scotch tape, scissors, rulers, pencil sharpeners, and erasers are also items that are needed.
Classroom Puzzles
Puzzles help children develop physical, social/emotional, cognitive, and language skills. The difficulty of puzzles can be changed according to the age and abilities of the children in the class. Early in the year, starting with a peg puzzle is appropriate, but by the end of the year, a more complex jigsaw puzzle with smaller pieces may be appropriate. Layered puzzles are also a great challenge for preschool children.
Board Games
Board games can be great fun for preschoolers, especially when played with a teacher or small groups of students. Good games to purchase include matching games, counting games, and memory games. Board games with sequencing and following directions are also helpful to the development of small children.
Preschool Books
Books are one of the best educational aids for students at any level, but especially for the preschool level. Books help students develop listening and concentration skills. They introduce students to expressive language and vocabulary. Books also help students learn expressive and receptive language skills, as well as learning to articulate their thoughts. Books help with literary skills such as the recognition of symbols, letters, and words. They help establish imaginations in preschoolers, and teachers are great at instilling a love of reading into children. Books are critical to the development of preschool children.
Preschool Toys
What preschool classroom would be complete without toys? Toys should be constructed of quality materials and encourage imaginative, independent play. They should be colorful and versatile.
Preschool classrooms need to be bright, inviting environments. By stocking a classroom with the above essentials, it will be sure to be a perfect learning environment for young children.