Preschool Learning Centers
Preschool Centers are commonly referred to as Preschool Learning Centers, or Learning Spaces. These are activity areas dedicated to a specific type of of play and exploring a variety of topics and activities.
These areas can be organized around themes related to different aspects of early childhood development. Consider creating a literacy/Library Space, science space, art & craft space, music and movement space, dramatic play space, block & building space, math and game space, and a space for physical activity. Learning centers provide children with opportunities to interact with materials and practice skills in a fun and engaging way.
They also allow teachers to observe and assess the progress of individual children, and to facilitate learning through small group activities. Learning centers are a great way to encourage children to explore, discover, and use their imaginations in a safe and supportive environment.
These areas can be organized around themes related to different aspects of early childhood development. Consider creating a literacy/Library Space, science space, art & craft space, music and movement space, dramatic play space, block & building space, math and game space, and a space for physical activity. Learning centers provide children with opportunities to interact with materials and practice skills in a fun and engaging way.
They also allow teachers to observe and assess the progress of individual children, and to facilitate learning through small group activities. Learning centers are a great way to encourage children to explore, discover, and use their imaginations in a safe and supportive environment.
Benefits of Preschool Learning Centers
Setting up preschool learning spaces in the classroom is a great way to encourage children to explore and learn. Having dedicated areas for activities and materials will help to create an environment that is organized and stimulating. It will also help to create a sense of ownership for the children since they will be able to recognize their learning space.
Preschool learning spaces also provide a safe environment for children to develop their independence. Having a designated area for play and learning allows children to explore and discover without feeling overwhelmed or too confined. It also allows them to explore different materials, concepts, and activities at their own pace.
How to Set up Preschool Learning Spaces
Learning centers should be designed to allow children to explore and interact with different materials that will help them develop important skills. When setting up preschool learning centers, it’s important to take into consideration the age of the children, the type of materials available, and the size of the classroom.
Start by making sure you have enough space for your learning centers. Divide your space into Quiet Spaces (Library/Calm Down Area) , and Loud Spaces (Dramatic Play, Blocks & Construction). Try to stagger the activities on opposite sides of the room as possible.
Wet Spaces such as Science and Sensory areas should be placed in areas of your classroom that allow for easy clean up, while dry activity areas, such as Small World Play, Table Toys, and Games are appropriate for rug play.
Choose a corner of the classroom that is large enough to accommodate the materials you plan to use. The best way to maximize the space is to create two or three different learning centers that can be used by multiple children at once.
Wet Spaces such as Science and Sensory areas should be placed in areas of your classroom that allow for easy clean up, while dry activity areas, such as Small World Play, Table Toys, and Games are appropriate for rug play.
Choose a corner of the classroom that is large enough to accommodate the materials you plan to use. The best way to maximize the space is to create two or three different learning centers that can be used by multiple children at once.
Create an inviting atmosphere in each learning center by decorating the area with bright colors, pictures, and other eye-catching items. This will help draw the children’s attention to the learning centers and encourage them to explore the different materials.
Organizing your Learning Centers
Purchase sturdy shelving and furniture that will last for many years to come. Having accessible shelving helps young children understand the importance of keeping their materials in an orderly manner, and allows them to be more independent. IKEA is a popular place to purchase children's shelving and storage units for preschool learning centers. They offer a variety of reasonably priced products that are perfect for childcare providers or small preschool centers.
Organizing preschool learning centers using baskets, bins, or trays is a great way to keep your classroom clutter-free and ensure that your students have easy access to a variety of learning materials. label baskets and bins with a photo and clear title that corresponds to the materials inside. Rotate your materials often, and avoid adding too many activities or materials to learning spaces (which can cause too much visual stimulation).
Organizing preschool learning centers using baskets, bins, or trays is a great way to keep your classroom clutter-free and ensure that your students have easy access to a variety of learning materials. label baskets and bins with a photo and clear title that corresponds to the materials inside. Rotate your materials often, and avoid adding too many activities or materials to learning spaces (which can cause too much visual stimulation).
Choosing Materials and Activities for your Learning Centers
Activities should be tailored to the age and ability of the children in the classroom. For example, younger children may benefit from having an area with sensory toys and materials, while older children may need a space for more advanced activities.
Fill each learning center with age-appropriate materials that are designed to encourage exploration and learning. Depending on the age of the children, these materials can include books, puzzles, art supplies, blocks, toys, games, manipulatives, or science materials.
Managing Preschool Learning Centers
Free Play learning centers allow student to play Independently. Students can move freely between centers, pick and choose the activities they engage in, and choose the amount of time they spend in each center. In free play centers, the educator manages the materials by stocking the learning centers with developmentally appropriate activities, and provides students with requested materials. Free play allows students to make their own decisions, and have ownership of their play.
Structured Learning Centers limit the amount of time, and the number of students that are allowed to be in each center. In this approach some educators post learning center capacity signs, use transition songs to rotate centers, and use center cards. necklaces, or photo cards to identify the center each student should go to.
Tips for Creating Learning Spaces in Small Spaces
Creating preschool learning centers in your home, or in small spaces can be a challenge, but there are a few tips that can help!
First, think in terms of multi-functional pieces. You may want to look for furniture or materials that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a large storage bin could be used to store toys, but it could also be used as a table for art projects.
Secondly, get creative with wall space. Utilize any wall space to hang posters or pictures that can help stimulate learning. A magnetic wipe board can become an art space, a place to hang your calendar, or even a space for students to engage in magnetic learning activities.
Consider a mobile centers. A cart can be used to create a variety of mobile learning centers including: an Art and Craft Cart, Calm down activity cart, or even a mobile science center. Purchasing mobile shelving units also give you the ability to easily rearrange your space.
If you don't have space inside, create learning centers outside!
First, think in terms of multi-functional pieces. You may want to look for furniture or materials that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a large storage bin could be used to store toys, but it could also be used as a table for art projects.
Secondly, get creative with wall space. Utilize any wall space to hang posters or pictures that can help stimulate learning. A magnetic wipe board can become an art space, a place to hang your calendar, or even a space for students to engage in magnetic learning activities.
Consider a mobile centers. A cart can be used to create a variety of mobile learning centers including: an Art and Craft Cart, Calm down activity cart, or even a mobile science center. Purchasing mobile shelving units also give you the ability to easily rearrange your space.
If you don't have space inside, create learning centers outside!
