Zoning: Zoning Mixed Age Group Environment
Teacher: Here's the STEAM area/all choking hazards.
Teacher 2: Yes!
[Both laugh]
Teacher: You've been using that gate strategy off and on, and we decided to block in the STEAM area. That you would have a permanent place where you could put anything that you don't want the younger children to get, choke on, or to be using. And that way, the older kids have a place where they can count on playing without interruption with those smaller materials, such as the tangram activity.
The setup of the environment is one important part of zoning. The positioning of shelves and use of gates can support educators in zoning successfully while working with mixed age groups. How does adding a gate to the science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) area support this family child care provider in zoning, keeping children safe, and maximizing learning for all age groups?
Find more environment tips in the Family Child Care Connections and Meaningful Makeover webinar series.
