environments and materials
- Ask teachers to read the article “Preventing Challenging Behavior in Young Children: Effective Practices.” Go over bullet points and have teachers identify what strategies they currently use and what strategy they would like to implement. Assist teachers to develop a concrete implementation plan and check back for effectiveness. (PCF, p. 42-44)
- Discuss with teachers how to integrate soothing colors, natural woods and fibers, and soft textures into the environment. Explain how when children feel calm and comfortable, they constructively interact with adults, peers, and learning materials. (PCF, p. 49)
- Use a tape recorder to record classroom sounds during a typical free choice time. Listen to the tape later with teachers and together identify classroom noise levels and competing noises that may make it hard for some children to focus or hear spoken language. Together, brainstorm strategies to lower the noise level in the room. (PCF, p. 49 and Prekindergarten Learning & Development Guidelines, p. 39)