When is the Right Time to Change a Classroom Space?

In our online workshops "Designing Uncommon Spaces" and "The Elements of Space Design," educators often ask…

When is the right time to change the classroom environment?

Let's explore this question together. Classroom spaces are alive, constantly evolving, and reflect the children's learning journey. A child's interaction with each classroom space sets the stage for learning. Thoughtful classroom design offers children visual and emotional cues, supports relationships, and communicates the beauty and fun of learning.

Children enjoy classroom spaces where they can make choices requiring little or no adult direction. Children thrive in classroom spaces where they can explore, test, and learn. Children enjoy working in a classroom with attractive, quality, and varied materials.

In the book Designs for Living and Learning, authors Deb Curtis and Margie Carter identify unique steps for transforming a classroom space. Let's explore them together.

Identify initial goals for change. Classroom spaces are alive. Children express the need for a space to change through action in the classroom. Observation is a crucial element in transforming a classroom space. As children work and play, they give us clues to changes we can make to the classroom that support their interests.

Observe children using the space. Through observation, educators learn what aspects of a classroom space are pleasing for children and what classroom spaces are challenging. Observation informs us what to add or take away from a classroom space. Children form new working relationships as they interact with materials or classroom space design changes. Changes to a classroom space must connect to the children's current area of exploration and interest. Wholesale changes in a classroom space create confusion and uncertainty.

Plan for Change and Collect Materials. Consider the materials you add or take away from a classroom space and how they support the interests of the children. Less is more. Curated classroom spaces invite children to explore. Changes in a classroom space invite an emotional response. Anything that moves, grows, or changes shape creates excitement. Soft space, subdued lighting, and beauty create warmth and calm in the classroom.

Make Change. In Spaces for Children, authors Carl Simon Weinstein and Thomas G. Daniel identify ways to create a better classroom environment. Pathways create invitations in the classroom. As you change a classroom space, try to create a visual path for children to interact within each area. Inviting, beautiful, and organized classroom spaces attract children to explore what lies within. Adding new materials to an existing classroom space creates an invitation for complex play and expands learning opportunities. Consider what is near the classroom space you want to change since children enjoy combining materials from classroom spaces near each other.

Document Children in the New Space. After making changes to your classroom space, the evaluation process begins. Work together and guide the children as they use the new space. Make observations and write notes about how classroom space changes impact the children's learning experience. Remember to give special attention to how children work and move together in a new classroom space. As necessary, adjust to maximize the possibilities of a space design.

Reflection on Change and New Understanding of the Space. Use your notes and observations to reflect on your new classroom space design. Do the changes align with your initial goals for change? What small additions or subtractions to the classroom will get the environment closer to your original plan for change?

Thoughtful changes to a classroom space support children's learning and foster relationships in the learning community. By considering the steps for changing a classroom space, educators will know when it is time to make a change and create intentional spaces and invitations that support the goals of our learning community.