Ever see a classroom that is more about the teacher’s
artistic ability then the students? Elobratetly decorated boards showcasing the
teacher’s great ability? This is not
Best Practice. Read on to learn why it is important in the early learning environment
to decorate the room with the children’s work.
In the early learning classroom showcasing the children’s
work is very important. We want to have
the children’s work everywhere! Walls, boards, even from ceilings if able. When we showcase the children’s work we are
saying it is of value. We are promoting
social-emotional growth, we are instilling sense of self-worth and confidence.
Children love to see their work displayed. They take pride in their work. When we
display children’s work we encourage meaningful interactions to take place in
the classroom. Imagine yourself for a
moment, would you want to give 110% if no one ever acknowledged that you were
doing that? Children are no different.
They need to see their hard work displayed and valued by other children
and the adults around.
This is not to say there is no room for a teacher created
board. They can be visually appealing and even be a teaching moment. However,
in the early learning classroom, 95% at least of your room display should be
child created.
Now, look at your classroom. Are you encouraging
social-emotional growth, confidence, and self-worth? Are you encouraging pride
in work and giving 110%? If not, it may
time to reevaluate your process and classroom display strategies.
