Showcase Magazine Summer 2025 - Flipbook - Page 21
CHILD
DEVELOPMENT
How to Create an Effective Early
Years Learning Environment
In an Early Years environment, it is important that the resources for children are
accessible and offer opportunities for play and exploration. Additionally, they should be
interesting and engaging, encouraging the children to develop skills such as problemsolving and critical thinking. It important that the children have access to constant and
consistent opportunities to learn.
Early Years Practitioners play a large role in organising the environment to allow for
children to have the opportunities to learn. Resources should be kept in a familiar and
accessible location to encourage the children to be independent and have the
autonomy to create their own activities based on their interests.
Room Organisation
Things to Consider
The room should be organised in to different areas for
different types of play and activities. For example:
A small world area (involves creating miniature
environments where children can explore their
imagination and act out scenarios using toys,
figurines, or natural materials).
A construction area (involves activities where
children build, design, and create structures using
various materials such as blocks, Lego, or natural
items like sticks and stones).
A reading area (a cosy space with books, cushions,
and soft lighting to encourage quiet time and
literacy skills).
A creative area (tables, chairs, and access to
materials like paints, crayons, and playdough for art
and craft activities).
A role-play area (provide props and costumes for
imaginative play, like a kitchen set, doctor’s kit, or a
small market stall).
Safety First
Conduct regular risk assessments, keep policies and
training up to date, and ensure the space is secure so
children can explore without harm.
Accessible Layout
Use low shelving and open floor space to let children
move and choose materials independently,
encouraging exploration.
Positive Relationships
Foster trusting bonds between practitioners and
children so that each child feels safe, supported and
confident to investigate.
Enabling Environment
Create a rich, dynamic setting that brings in varied
materials and challenges to spark imagination and
learning.
The Unique Child
Recognise each child’s own interests, abilities and
pace. Offer activities and resources that support a
range of developmental stages.
Bright, Inviting & Stimulating
Incorporate bold colours, child-level displays, natural
light, cosy nooks and sensory elements (e.g. sand,
water, textured fabrics) to engage all the senses.
Expressive Arts and Design
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Showcase Training 21
