Classroom Arrangements & Materials 

Classroom Requirements 

Provide a physical environment conducive to learning and reflective of the different stages of development of each child.

• Always ensure at least 35 square feet of usable space per child to be changed throughout the year to meet the needs of enrolled children. 

• Utilize recommendations from Content Area Coordinators as well as Mental Health Consultants in considering classroom layout.  

• Inclusivity of any children with disabilities enrolled in the classroom. 

• Utilize recommendations made in consultation with the Education & Disabilities Coordinator.  

• Inclusivity of children who are dual language learners.  

• Include audio opportunities, books, and labels in the children's home language. They should be organized into functional areas that can be recognized by the children and that allow for individual activities and social interaction. 

• Functional “interest” or “learning” areas must include but are not limited to: Block area, Sensory Table, Library, Math/Science, Dramatic Play, Art, Writing Center, Table Toys/Manipulatives.  

• Include a “Safe Space” in accordance with the Safe Space and Positive Child Guidance Policy and Conscious Discipline training.

Classroom organization is done in accordance with the predominant classroom curricula. Head Start and Pre-K and Early Head Start Center-Based Programs use The Creative Curriculum. Early Head Start Home-Based Program uses Partners for a Healthy Baby and The Creative Curriculum 

Classrooms shall provide sufficient equipment, toys, materials, consumables, and furniture to meet the needs and facilitate the participation of children and adults enrolled in the program.  

Classroom materials are purchased and chosen by ensuring alignment with: 

• Needs and development of currently enrolled children 

• Materials, equipment, toys, and furniture for children with diagnosed disabilities are provided in consultation with the Education & Disabilities Coordinator. 

• Predominant Classroom Curricula 

Environmental assessments of the classroom may include but are not limited to: Environmental Checklists, Daily Condition Logs, Playground Inspections, Center Based Safe Environments Checklist, Center Checks, Head Start Standards 1304.53 (b) (1) which state, equipment, toys, materials, consumables, and furniture must be: 

• Supportive of the specific educational objectives of the local program; Supportive of the cultural and ethnic backgrounds of the children;  age-appropriate, safe, and supportive of the abilities and developmental level of each child served, with adaptations, if necessary, for children with disabilities;  accessible, attractive, and inviting to children; designed to provide a variety of learning experiences and to encourage each child to experiment and explore; safe, durable, and kept in good condition; and stored in a safe and orderly fashion when not in use.  

• Classroom equipment, toys, materials, consumables, and furniture must be made of non-toxic materials. 

• All Toys and equipment must be sanitized regularly.