Simple Sensory Walls

“A classroom isn't just four walls. From every corner to the full classroom setup, decoration shapes how children feel, think, and imagine every day.” 

— Early Learning Consensus

In our classroom I consider the potential of every learning space. This is why the aged back of a shelf that is located by the door especially interested me. I wanted a refresh that not only added to the aesthetic of our area, but provided another learning opportunity for the children.   

 

Although the pegboard offers potential as it can be utilized to attach different toys and tools (e.g., hanging invitations, organizing systems, easel) the depth of the shelf had made this difficult upon attempt. I also could not remove the stains and painting it wasn't of interest to me. Many of the learners in our space enjoy sensory invitations so I decided to use this to inspire my work.

I measured the area of the shelf and mapped out the space on the floor nearby. This way I could begin arranging materials in an easy and efficient way. I looked for different colours, shapes and textures using objects from around the classroom, my house and the local dollar store. Hot glue was strong enough for the items I included. 

 

The finished product was so pretty and incredibly well used by children. Over time I did have to touch up the space and reattach the more popular objects. 

 

See the entire process here!

This school year I was looking to change up the shelf so I thought a hanging fabric invitation might be of interest to children. I still wanted to offer a variety of colours and textures but hoped to specifically focus on the rainbow. I have noticed that young children are fascinated by rainbows. Also, as a sign of welcoming and inclusion, I liked the idea of one being located right by our door. I searched the local thrift store for fabric scraps and ribbon. My helper definitely approved!

I cut the fabric into strips, doubled it and tied it onto an upcycled long broom handle I had around the house. 

                                 

Using the pegboard holes, I wove thin wire through the back of the shelf and twist tied the pole into place. The wire is strong enough to allow children to touch and move the fabric as they explore this new sensory space. 

 

See the entire process here!

The Dreaming Classroom

It's been almost two weeks since school ended. I hope you are all enjoying some rest and relaxation! Summer is such a wonderful time to recharge, renew, and pursue other interests. I have been spending my time reading, writing and running, three of my favourite things to do during my time off!

When Miss J and I left school on Friday we had significantly cleaned and emptied our learning space in preparation for the summer clean up and late August set up that will be done before the children come back in September.  It was strange to see our beautiful, lively room so empty and quiet! 

Each September our room is a blank canvas, waiting for the children's ideas and creations to help co-construct the space. We believe in the Reggio Emilia philosophy that the classroom exists as the 'third teacher' and one that helps children learn and grow as they revisit and reflect upon ideas and artifacts of learning that tell the story of our time together. We want each child to see himself or herself reflected in our environment. We want children to know that their ideas and contributions are important and valued as essential to our collective existence and understanding.

 

What then do you think the classroom does in the summer? Do you believe that it continues to exist as an organic, living space, dreaming of when the children return in the fall? Is it sleeping, energizing itself for when those creative little beings return to school fresh from their summer holiday and ready to explore all the world has to offer?

Although Miss J and I were sad to see so many of the displays we created with the children disassembled, we also spent much of our time on Friday dreaming for September. We made a few minor changes to the layout of the classroom that we think will benefit the children and encourage more interaction and even deeper inquiry. We spent the day brainstorming the new and exciting materials we will have ready for those first few weeks of school and are so eager to see what paths of learning the children take. And although we are enjoying our summer with our friends and family, we are continuing to plan for what new adventures we will have in September!