Creating Playful Spaces: Start with a Nook
Participants in the Playful Learning Spaces eCourse will often ask about the best way to get started creating engaging spaces for their children. I think it is most practical to start with something simple. When we start out by wanting to tackle the big areas in our home, it can become overwhelming and often lead to analysis paralysis—and not much being accomplished.
I have seen that little changes can make a big difference and are a great way to build your confidence and create a positive momentum. It is for this reason that I often recommend that people start by finding a little nook or corner in their home where they can leave out a theme-based basket of materials for their children to discover. When you start looking through your children’s toys and materials with the idea of sorting them by themes, you will often find that you already have everything you need to create an inviting nook. You will be amazed to find that old toys presented in new ways can spark a fresh interest in your child.
Sketching
Math Games
Astronomy
Mariah
@playfullearning
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Hi Mariah! Do you have any suggestions for creating interest baskets for an almost 7 month old? Thanks!:)
Liz
Hi,
this is a great idea and I would like to offer you one of my hand made basket, if you allow me, please send me a adress. best wishes. Elizabete
Liz, Have you looked at treasure baskets for babies? These would make great ‘interest baskets’ like the ones shown here but for a younger child… let me see if I can find you a good link… Some great ideas for different ‘themed’ treasure baskets here – http://www.netmums.com/activities/arts-and-crafts/treasure-baskets
This is a great post. Would you please if you can give us names or resources for the items in each basket. I am especially interested in the items in the math, astronomy and sketching baskets, but love them all.
I love the simplicity and the appealing presentation. What child (or adult) could resist?
[...] great ideas for creating engaging spaces for your little ones (Playful [...]
I am so happy to have found this lovely blog! I’m currently creating a playroom in our finished basement, and I need it to work for all my children’s ages (5,3,1). Does anyone have suggestions or advice for me? I want to include stations or play areas somehow….art, dress ups, etc. I’m a bit overwhelmed
Thanks!!
Hi Meg – How exciting! Here is a list of our posts on creating Playful Learning spaces for children: http://playfullearning.net/experience-categories/learning-spaces/.
We also offer the Playful Learning Spaces eCourse, which takes you through setting up different “stations” or areas in your home that nurture reading, writing, art, science, music, and more… http://playfullearning.net/ecademy/playful-learning-spaces/.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions…
I came across your site and love your ideas and concept. I implement some of these nooks and baskets in my own family, but had not thought of the math one with math games. Great ideas and information!