Creating an enabling environment for play and learning requires careful planning and reviewing. As we all know the impact the environment, we find ourselves in can affect us hugely. In the same way the adults have the power to open or close down learning the environment can also do this. Malaguzzi describes the environment as being the third educator.
The environment can be thought of to include the physical as well as the emotional environment. This blog will primarily focus on the physical environment and the considerations are valid for both the indoor and outdoor.
We know that we are statutorily obligated to follow children’s interests in the EYFS. If children are interested and motivated by the resources on offer then they will explore, refine their thinking and develop their skills. This will also help children to feel valued and that they are important, which is vital for building self-esteem. This could also include potential interests, after all, how do we know we are interested in something if we don’t know of its existence?
