Keep your pre-K classroom as open as possible while allowing structure among individual activities by dividing the room into specific areas of play. For example, use two bookshelves facing inward to enclose a reading nook, complete with two beanbag chairs. Other areas can include art, blocks, active play and kitchen. This setup allows preschool children to transition smoothly because they know what to expect in their classroom. Keep the same materials and toys in the same area. Avoid changing the room around unless absolutely necessary. Children in a well-organized classroom have a sense of predictability and control.
Well-defined boundaries enable children to continue to play without interruption. They help children to stay focused on the activity at hand. Shelves, easels and bulletin boards can be used as boundaries between activities. Carpets can be used to define space such as circle time or library corner. Avoid unused space in the center of your classroom by having a low-key activity such as a library or reading nook in the center of the room with your other areas against the wall. A natural path will form as the children move from station to station, as the center of the room is a station as well. This prevents children from running through stations to get to the next one. Arrows can be placed on the path to assist students. Boundaries define and paths provide direction.
You can never have too much storage in a pre-K classroom. Think about how much storage you want and need before you decide on the layout of your pre-K classroom. Storage should be close to the activity area for which it is being used. It should look nice, fit well in your space and be useable by your 4- and 5-year-old students. Avoid fixed storage built-ins, if possible. Moveable storage furniture allows you to change your classroom from year to year based on enrollment needs or a change in activities. Shelving serves a dual purpose; it provides storage and boundaries between activity areas. This also saves wall space. Both teachers and students need personal storage space such as cubbies to hold their belongings.
Use materials in each activity area to enhance the mood of the theme in that particular area. For example, the reading nook might have a soft carpet with a "shush" or "quiet" sign on the wall and a large collection of age-appropriate books. The art area should be bright and colorful with children's art work hanging on their walls displaying their creativity. Children's behavior generally reflects what they pick up from their environment. Stimulating environments promote active behavior while quiet, soft colors promote relaxation. Make good use of natural light when possible. Child-size furniture is a must.