Post by Blog by Chiara Onofrio, Childcare Educator & Kiwi Room Leader (Ages 1-2)
At Happy Trails Play, we know that the layout of our learning rooms are crucial for fostering an environment where children can thrive. As the leader of the Kiwi Room, I’ve seen firsthand how a thoughtfully designed space can significantly enhance a child’s learning experiences.
A thoughtfully designed nursery layout offers clear, easily accessible areas for different activities, promoting a child’s curiosity and interaction with their environment. In the Kiwi Room, we’ve established designated areas for activities such as reading, building and construction, and sensory play. This approach supports children in gaining an understanding of expectation and routine, nurturing a sense of security and independence.
Kiwi’s has an open space that allows the children here to move freely, encouraging teamwork and communication between one another. These interactions are vital for developing personal, emotional and social skills, as well as their communication and language. By arranging furniture and resources to facilitate certain activities, we nurture a community where children learn from each other.
Safety is always top priority for us and is always carefully considered. In the Kiwi Room, we ensure that all areas are safe and accessible, with age-appropriate (yet, challenge driven) materials within easy reach. This setup not only promotes independence but also reduces frustration, enabling toddlers to focus on exploration and learning through free choice.
We are fortunate to have plenty of natural light, which enhances the sensory-rich materials that are essential to our layout. Bright, airy spaces filled with diverse textures stimulate curiosity and cognitive development. Incorporating natural elements, such as plants and sunlight, fosters a calming atmosphere that supports both learning and well-being. Additionally, our fantastic loft allows children to gain a unique perspective of the world, offering views they might not experience elsewhere! Seeing is believing!
Ultimately, the layout of the Kiwi Room is designed to support a holistic approach to learning, addressing the physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of our little toddlers. At Happy Trails Play Nursery, we are committed to creating an environment where every child can flourish and become the best versions of themselves.
