The Physical Environment of Early Childhood Centers: A Case Study in the use of Break-Out Spaces

Abstract

The creation of high quality Early Learning Centers is at the top of the national agendas in nations around the globe. Historically, changes directed towards improving Early Childhood Education have focused on the aspects of the social environment and curriculum. While these factors play an important role in early learning center quality, we find that too little attention is given to important role of the physical setting of the classroom. Despite the fact that there is a near 50year history of documented evidence on the impact of physical parameters on children's learning and development, few policies or interventions are specifically directed towards making systematic improvements to the built environment. We find this especially problematic given that the physical environment of classroom can impact the language, cognitive and social development of children in significant ways. In this case study, we provide a review of the most salient research on the impact of the physical environment in Early Childhood and present examples of how the use of Break-Out Spaces can effectively address physical aspects of the classroom that impact children's learning and development.