Center Environment
Young children, from infants To preschoolers, want To
feel safe and comfortable. At The Learning Tree, our
classrooms and infant rooms are organized To maintain a
clean, colorful and safe environment that children can
trust and feel as though they belong. This leads To
feelings of independence and willingness To explore.
Centers are structured To allow for group spaces, as well
as quiet, "on-your-own" spaces.
The Learning Tree's curriculum promotes distinct interest
areas in order To encourage independence, foster decision
making and involvement. These interest areas typically
include space for the following activities:
• Science
• Blocks
• Library
• Dramatic Play
• Music & Movement
• Table Toys
• Outdoors
• Art
• Computers
• Sand & Water
• Gross Motor
Some of these areas are dedicated To quiet play with
books, puzzles or art, while others, such as Sand & Water,
Blocks and House Corner offer opportunities for more
active play. With interest areas like this, children are
encouraged To make decisions, use materials appropriately
and creatively, stay with an activity for a time, and learn
To appreciate and care for materials.
The Learning Tree environment also encourages both
autonomy and self-control because children must learn To
cooperate, take turns with others, work out their
disagreements in a socially acceptable manner and learn To
organize their time and materials. The Learning Tree
offers children a perfect setting for making decisions and
trying new skills.
