Creating a purposeful learning environment sets the tone for both growth and fun throughout the school year. This page outlines practical tips for designing a classroom for toddlers and preschools and explains why each element matters in supporting development, safety, and play-based learning.
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1. Provide a well-lit, appropriately sized learning space. Tables and chairs should fit the child so that feet rest flat on the floor and hips and knees form 90-degree angles. This posture provides stability and comfort for writing.
2. Children develop fine motor skills best when working on a vertical surface. Holding a writing utensil or brush against a vertical surface strengthens the muscles in the wrist and hand—muscles not used in the same way on a horizontal surface. For this reason, place craft, writing, and drawing activities on a vertical surface whenever possible (e.g., an easel, wall, or door).
While classrooms are inviting and inspiring, there’s no need to recreate a full classroom in your home. Instead, weave learning naturally into daily life rather than limiting it to one specific spot or time.
Provide a child-size table and chair, open floor space, and a thoughtful selection of quality toys. Keeping the number of toys manageable—or rotating them so only a few are available at once—helps the child stay engaged. I found it helpful to store similar toys in labeled boxes in a closet. When my kids wanted something specific, I simply pulled out that box. After they finished playing, we cleaned it up and traded it for another. Books stayed in an easy-to-reach basket so reading was always within reach.
Watch a child confidently learn through engaging, hands-on activities in the ABCJesusLovesMe Preschool Curriculum. With a focus on both academics and biblical values, this program nurtures development in every area, all while making learning fun. Click to discover how we can support a child's educational journey!
Research consistently shows that media—whether educational or not—activates a different part of the brain than hands-on play. When a screen is on, the child isn’t building imagination, practicing fine or gross motor skills, or learning through social interaction and trial and error. For this reason, electronic use in a preschool classroom is best kept to a minimum.
Read More About Technology Use
To stay fully engaged with the child, teachers benefit from keeping media and cell phones out of sight during learning time. This helps ensure consistent monitoring, encouragement, and connection, with phones available only for true emergencies.
The colored dots on the floor guide the child to specific spots for lining up and participating in circle time. These markers give structure and help the child know exactly where to stand or sit.
Cubies offer the child a clear place to store personal items and learn responsibility for their belongings. Adding names to each cubie also supports name-recognition skills.
A rug and shelving help define learning centers, making each area feel intentional and inviting. This simple structure encourages the child to understand how each space is used.
A chair for the teacher ensures every child has a clear view during group time. Keeping a small basket of frequently used teaching props nearby makes transitions smoother and lessons more engaging.
A simple book nook gives the child the opportunity to choose a book and enjoy it in a child-sized chair. Rotating the book selection throughout the year keeps this area new and encourages daily reading.
Higher cabinets and cubies keep items that are unsafe or not child friendly out of reach.
Toy bins are labeled for easy clean up.
