Prepared Environment

"The first aim of the prepared environment is, as far as it is possible, to render the growing child independent of the adult."

1. Classrooms are referred to as Prepared Environments.
2. Classrooms are child-centered.
3. Materials and classrooms are structured to help develop a sense of order, concentration, coordination, and independence.
4. There is an abundance of materials to meet the needs of many developmental levels.
5. The materials are sequenced from simple to complex and are presented in the classroom in a logical order throughout the year.
6. There is a quiet busy tone.
7. A sense of community is fostered in classrooms composed of mixed-age groupings.
8. There is a balance of freedom and responsibility in the classroom.