Since early learning programs and curriculum are play based, an environment that fosters play is the best type of environment you as an educator want to strive for. "Children's feelings of security and confidence in a space affect the complexity and length of their play" (Epstein, p11). This shows that children need to feel safe and confident in their environment to be able to become deeply involved in play. "Altering space to make children feel large in relation to their environment may enable children to enter complex play more quickly and to continue complex play for longer periods of time" (Epstein, p11).
As ECE's we are responsible to make a positive play environment for all our children.
There are 4 things ECE's can do to help ensure a positive play environment.
1. Provide a safe and healthy indoor and outdoor environment
2. Organize the space in interest areas or centers
3. Supply plentiful and diverse equipment and materials
4. Display work created by and of interest to the children
There are other steps ECE's can take to promote feelings of security in the children. They are;
1. Establish a consistent yet flexible daily routine
2. Allow for a variety of types and activities
3. Use a variety of groupings
4. Allow just enough time for each type of activity
