Challenging and Supportive Climates

Environments that best nurture young children’s development have long been considered an essential component of early childhood education. The term climate, when used in conjunction with learning environments for children, is inclusive of the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive setting. The learning climate results from the organization of the learning space itself, the teacher–child interactions, and the interactions between the children. A climate that is characterized as challenging and supportive is intentionally created in such a manner that children’s total development will naturally be promoted. Additionally, the knowledgeable early childhood educator utilizes guidance, creates learning opportunities, and provides instruction consistent with children’s current level of functioning, while also facilitating growth through intentional scaffolding. A well-structured classroom for young children is planned with the understanding that ...