Did you know that childcare buildings can play an influential role in the early stages of child development? The requirements of an environment that promotes learning and child development are considerably less intensive than you might imagine.
Starting with these basic principles, children need a place that provides the following:
Comfortable: Feels comfortable like home
Open Space: Provides enough space for a variety of activities
Versatile Floorplan: Adaptability that allows children to accomplish tasks
Let’s dive into the details on that note!
Comfortable Like Home
You’ll notice that most daycare centers don’t necessarily have an eclectic mix of styles. The reason behind this is that children don’t benefit from beautiful granite countertops and immaculate details. There’s no harm in choosing a beautiful design, but children do benefit from a space that makes them feel comfortable. Every parent experiences anxiety when choosing the right place to take their children during these beginning years, comfortability is of the utmost importance. Some decisions that influence comfortability can be the lighting, color, and acoustics of the given space.
Space for Activities
They need to roam! When designing the space for the building, it is important to keep a multi-use open area for activities. This space should be less specific, allowing children to instill imagination in their playing from using building blocks to racing cars or playing dolls. It is also encouraged to provide spaces for specific activities, like a reading station or a napping area. These spaces will likely be in a welcoming corner that is cozy and safe with less “traffic” running by.
Adaptable for Accomplishing Tasks
Daycare facilities need purposeful direction. Children grow strength in independence when they are able to easily maneuver from one task to the next. When it’s time to put their crafts in their cubbies, throw away their trash, use the restroom, or wash their hands - they should have clear directions and accessibility to each! Decisions like lowered furniture and toilets or sinks instead of step stools will help children succeed in these tasks.
At Identity Architects, our daycare facilities are designed and inspired to be interactive atmospheres that pave the way for a safe place for children to play and learn. We have consistently designed and built between six to ten daycare centers a year for multiple franchises. Identity Architects is here to take your next daycare project to the next level with your children’s success in mind! Reach out to us at 713-595-2150 or visit us online at www.identityarchitects.com to view previous projects.