The environment and arrangement of a classroom sets the tone for how children interact with materials and with one another.

A structured schedule supports children's smooth engagement with activities. Within this context, teachers plan activities that enable children to make choices and become independent learners. Time is allotted to provide opportunities for group interaction, outside play, and work completion.

At work time, children can choose to work in small groups or individually in classroom centers. Children can plan what they would like to do, carry out their plans, learn responsibility and follow-though skills.

Teachers employ strategies throughout the day to develop important skills in areas such as listening, language, pre-math, science, reading readiness and writing.

Reading/Writing/Media Center

Develop emergent literacy skills.
Increase vocabulary.
Increase appreciation of the printed word.
Develop listening skills.
Develop appreciation of ideas presented by others.
Learn care of books and technology equipment..
Develop writing skills.

Art Center

Develop positive self-concept.
Experience creative process.
Develop fine motor skills.
Learn to express ideas and feelings.
Learn names and use tools.
Develop visual perceptual skills.
Observe color, texture, and line composition.
Learn names of colors.
Learn to identify shapes.
Develop problem-solving skills.
Develop eye-hand coordination.

Dramatic Play Center

Develop positive self-concept.
Experience creative process.
Develop fine motor skills.
Learn to express ideas and feelings.
Learn names and use tools.
Develop visual perceptual skills.
Observe color, texture, and line composition.
Learn names of colors.
Learn to identify shapes.
Develop problem-solving skills.
Develop eye-hand coordination

Block Center

Facilitate learning in mathematics and science.
Develop new vocabulary and concepts.
Enhance social skills.
Practice problem-solving skills.

Toys and Games Center

Develop new vocabulary and concepts.
Refine small muscle control.
Develop eye-hand coordination.
Practice problem-solving skills.

Science and/or Math Center

Develop observation skills.
Develop new vocabulary.
Practice classification skills.
Practice prediction skills.
Develop an understanding of the biological and physical environments.

Music/Listening Center

Develop positive self-concepts.
Express feelings.
Learn patterns.
Learn names and sounds of instruments.
Develop language skills.
Practice listening skills by differentiating sounds.
Experience creative process.