Measure your classroom and all large pieces of furniture to help you in your planning. Use graph paper or an online classroom set-up tool, such as the one available on the Scholastic website to help you create an appropriately sized classroom model for your plan.
Make a list of all classroom furniture, supplies and centers that you want to include in your classroom plan. Note the locations of any electrical outlets, windows and doors on your plan to avoid blocking access.
Use your list of classroom furniture to label a variety of work spaces in your plan. Designate a large area of the room for circle time and floor activities. Situate low, sturdy shelves away from the wall to create cozy spaces, such as a classroom library. Place work stations near similar stations, with loud activities such as building blocks and hands-on exploration areas far away from quieter spaces such as a listening center or computer station. Place the art or water and sand play areas near the classroom sink or restroom. Include an open area near the classroom door for parents to drop off their students and designate a special spot for students' backpacks, lunchboxes and jackets.
Indicate spaces to store supplies and activities on your students' level when planning your classroom design. Designate low shelves and small baskets for child-friendly materials such as art supplies and learning toys that you want students to access without having to ask for assistance.
Include a secure area for adult supplies, out of your students' reach in your plan. Designate high shelves or closed cabinets for supplies such as construction paper, extra books or snack foods and consider placing dangerous items such as cleaning supplies, scissors, knives or a hot glue gun in a locked closet, cabinet or drawer to prevent student injury.
Check your layout for any traffic flow problems or safety concerns. Draw traffic patterns on your lane and then walk the routes around the classroom to look for obstacles, such as a shelf blocking the way to the bathroom or a table in the path to the exit.
Label locations for classroom decoration on your plan. Designate areas for student artwork to create a welcoming environment for the children. Determine where to place interesting posters and pictures focusing on what your class is learning about, such as photographs of dogs and cats for a classroom study of pets.