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Safety Guidelines for Designing a Preschool Classroom

Just as parents safety-proof their homes, a good teacher needs to safety proof her classroom. Preschoolers are active and curious and likely to get into anything they can reach. When setting up and designing your classroom, only place things you want them handling within reach. Keep anything dangerous put up, and once class starts, maintain orderliness and safety rules.
  1. Toxic Substances

    • Place all cleaning supplies, medicines or potentially toxic substances in a locked cupboard out of the reach of the children. Return items to this cupboard immediately after use, and take out only what you need.

    Toys

    • Do not place bins full of toys on a shelf anywhere above the height of the shortest child in the classroom to avoid potential head injuries. Blocks should not be stacked any higher than this, either. To keep the floor clear of toys that might act as trip hazards, have the children put them up when they are finished with them. Do not use broken toys or toys with small pieces or sharp edges.

    Hazardous Tools

    • Scissors, cooking implements and anything that might be considered potentially dangerous should be used only under direct supervision. Do not place them where children can have access to them, and put them back up when they’re not being used. Evaluate such tools carefully to make sure they are age- and task-appropriate.

    Play Areas

    • If your classroom is set up in play and work areas, be aware of how many children it is safe to have in any given area. Do not allow overcrowding, as it could lead to pushing and unintentional injuries. Set up your areas so there is free flow between them and you can see all parts of the classroom at once. Keep in mind fire exits that are easily accessible.

    Classroom Rules

    • For adults: do not drink hot drinks while children are present. Do not leave the children unsupervised. For children: No running. No throwing of any item not specifically designed for that purpose, and never indoors.

    Other Dangers

    • Be aware of windows, window shades, heaters and other dangerous items that should be secured so children can’t reach or open them. Window shade cords pose a strangulation risk, while heaters might burn an unwary child. Put fire extinguishers where you can reach them quickly.

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