Author Linda Zane took the time to talk with us about her road to teaching children, writing Pedagogy and Space, and what inspires her to keep going. Click here to read her Author Spotlight interview.
In this day and age of the Internet, and Pinterest, it is absolutely easy to get inspiration for designing and setting up early childhood education environments. In recent years, there has been a wide range of books and ideas that will help early childhood educators create amazing spaces for children to play and learn. What many people don't realize when they see set ups in day cares and preschools is the meaning behind those set ups. There is a reason for every piece of furniture or equipment being in a space, and placed where it is. Recently I read a book that explores such an idea and gives amazing inspiration to all who may read it. It was a wonderful mix of academia and inspirational full color photos of spaces from all types of early childhood education programs. Not only does the book explain the importance of design and space, but it covers the following topics: -Making Connections (General Schemas of Connection) -Coming and Going (Entrance and Exits) -On The Move (Circulation) -Let the Sunshine In (LIghting and Color) -A Place of My Own (Room Structure) -Be Comfortable (Seating) -Take It Outside (Outdoor Space) It also includes ideas of how to apply the concepts learned in the book, and tool kits (easy to reproduce) to help you set up a fantastic learning environment for children of all ages! I am absolutely blessed to have Dr. Zane's book in my professional library and my goal is take many of the concepts from the book and apply them to my family child care program in the near future! I highly recommend this book and give it a huge thumbs up!