Successful environments consistently have certain key elements. Give at least three elements and an example of how each is reflected in daily classroom life

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANSWER:
Elements of successful environments and samples of how they look in the environment are as follows:
Give children ways to identify their own space—label their cubbies with name, photo.
Give children an opportunity to make choices—give them many materials and interest centers from which to choose.
See that children are responsible for caring for the equipment and materials—establish a cleanup time in the daily schedule and allow children to help restore the room and yard.
Involve children in the process of planning and setting up the environment—let them help decide what they want to learn by developing areas and units around what they bring to class.
Provide children with enough time to learn through regular routines, such as eating, dressing, and toileting.
Allow children to solve their own problems without adult intervention whenever possible—observe a child struggling with material before stepping in.
Accept children’s efforts—be ready to allow children to dress themselves, however imperfectly, without criticism.
Communicate expectations—tell them both in verbal and nonverbal ways what you want to see happen, such as “It's cleanup time. You have plenty of time and don't have to hurry.”
Be sure staff expectations are consistent—the team should set common goals and reinforce them.
Consider the developmental level of the child—know what is typical and normal for the age of the group you are working with.
Make it safe to make a mistake—when someone spills juice, for example, help the child find a sponge and wipe it up without teacher disapproval or anxiety.
Give credit where credit is due—compliment a child when a task is complete or an effort is noticed.
Be sure children have access to enough toys and materials—make sure supplies are stored in such a way that adults do not have to hand them to children every time they will be used.
Let children teach one another—encourage and actively seek out each child’s way of doing things, and have them show another how to do something.