The three aspects of ECE environments—physical, temporal, and social—are integrated to allow for teaching and learning in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Let’s consider the opening scenario and how it would be different if the teachers were intentional about planning for and using the environment. Imagine walking into the child care center and being greeted with “Good morning, I heard you were visiting the program. Welcome to the preschool classroom. It is arrival time so the children are putting away their belongings, saying goodbye to their family member(s), washing their hands, and joining their peers who are playing. You are welcome to look around and observe.”

You enter the classroom and hear children greeting one another and see them finding something to do. A group of three children seem excited to see a friend and say “Estelle is here! Let’s ask Estelle if we should build a castle like we did yesterday.” You notice children’s artwork on the walls and photos of children, at their eye level. The room is arranged in areas with similar items such as blocks in one area, shelves are neat and organized, and you can see a painting activity set up in the art area. You look over to the cubby area where a child is crying.

You hear the teacher talking in a soothing voice saying “It is hard to say goodbye, but your mother will pick you up later. You can play with your friends, have lunch, and your mother comes when we are outside after naptime. Remember yesterday when you put together the fire truck puzzle? Would you like to start today by doing a puzzle or looking at a book?” The child looks up reluctantly and says “Can my mom help me with the puzzle?” The teacher asks the mother about this, who says there is time to stay for a few minutes. The mother and child walk into the classroom.

How does this environment compare to the one in the opening scenario? Can you see the difference in the physical, temporal, and social aspects of the environment? In this environment, how would you feel as a visitor? As a teacher?

An effective ECE environment is well-thought out, planned for developmental levels of children, and includes the indoor and outdoor spaces. It also includes an effective daily schedule. Such environments are places that are nurturing, joyful, and promote learning and well-being for both children and adults.