child’s development is influenced by many factors, beginning with prenatal care during the early months of in utero development and leading up to the first breath they take when entering the world. This first phase is critical to brain development and forming solid relationships with the parents, often referred to as the “bonding period.” During the first three years of life, a child will learn through interactions with the people who care for them.

The home impacts a child’s world and contributes to their early learning experiences. The home can have a long-term effect on a child’s development.  An enriching and stimulating environment promote healthy brain development and growth. A child's time at home includes what they see, hear, smell, taste, and touch while piquing their curiosity and interest.

The school environment also plays a significant role in a child’s early years. A child's relationship with their teachers and peers helps them learn how to share their feelings and thoughts. Loving adult relationships will foster a child’s personality and help them develop self-confidence. Conversations and field trips can create a rich extension to the learning environment, as well as reading favorite books throughout the day.

When setting up a classroom for young children, try to include various hands-on items, stimulating as many senses as possible. Children retain information quicker when they can use multiple senses. The goal should be to allow the children to explore, role play, and experiment so they can discover their interests, talents, and strengths. Here are a few basic staples that every early childhood classroom should have:

Evelyn Sullivan, M.Ed.

Director, Early Childhood Education,
North American Division