News

Environment

The early years settings in Reggio Emilia, Italy, refer to the environment as the 'third teacher'. This phrase reinforces the power of the surroundings in which we live and work with children. Children need space

Children need space

It is vital that we make the best use of space. Ideally, children need opportunities to think using the inside and outside environments. They need to be able to move, make and do things without disturbing others and to experience that heady feeling of acting for themselves without being overseen by adults.

Where indoor and outdoor areas are linked, practitioners should view the space as a totality and see what opportunities it offers for children to follow through their interests and decisions and make connections.

Children need access to rich continuous provision The quality and range of resources available daily to children has a profound effect on their thinking.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here