Adapted by Diane Trister Dodge

The Positive Classroom Environment

Adapted by Diane Trister Dodge

This Is a Good Place to Be

• Neutral colors (gray, off-white, beige) are used on the walls, and bright colors are used selectively to highlight interestareas.

• Furniture is clean, safe, and well maintained.

• Wall decorations are largely made up of children’s art displayed attractively at their eye level.

• Decorations such as plants, fabric-covered pillows, and colorful tablecloths are used in the classroom.

You Belong Here

• There is a cubby or basket for personal things with each child’s name and/or picture.

• Furniture is child sized and in good condition.

• Pictures on the wall, in books, and in learning materials include people of different ethnic and economic backgroundsand people with disabilities.

• Children’s artwork is displayed and protected.

• Materials, equipment, and furniture are adapted so children with disabilities can be involved in all areas and activities.

This Is a Place You Can Trust

• A well-defined schedule is established so children learn the order of events that occur each day.

• Pictures illustrate the schedule so children can “read” it.

• Shelves are neat and uncluttered so children can see what materials and toys are available.

• Furniture and materials are arranged consistently and labeled so children know where to find the things they need.

You Can Do Many Things on Your Own and Be Independent

• Materials are stored on low shelves, encouraging children to select and use materials on their own.

• Materials are logically organized (drawing paper is near the markers and crayons, pegs are near the pegboards) and

located in areas where they are to be used (table toys on a shelf near low tables, blocks and props in the block area).

• Shelves are labeled with pictures that show children where toys and materials belong.

• An illustrated job chart shows what each child’s responsibilities are.

• Open spaces outdoors encourage children to use their bodies freely.

You Can Get Away and Be By Yourself When You Need To

• Small, quiet areas of the room accommodate one or two children.

• There is a large pillow or stuffed chair in a quiet corner of the classroom.

• There are headphones for a phonograph or tape recorder for individual listening.

This Is a Safe Place to Explore and Try Out Your Ideas

• There are protected and defined quiet areas for small group activities (e.g., table with several chairs enclosed by lowshelves containing table toys).

• Children are given smocks for artwork and water play so that they can express themselves without fear of getting soiled.

• Protected floor space is clearly defined and out of the line of traffic so that children can build with blocks.

• The outdoor area is fenced in and protected.

• Attractive displays of materials invite children to use them.

• Toys are rotated so there is frequently something new to interest children.

Phoenix Children’s Academy Family of Schools