Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Making the most of environment in classroom with very limited natural light

    Posted 06-12-2021 11:28 AM
    How exciting it is to be preparing a center in Southern Ohio! The center will be licensed by DOE. All construction and renovation has been approved by local codes.
    However, there will be very little natural light in our toddler space. With some experience in creating appropriate environments I think I have some ideas to compensate for the void.
    I would welcome any and all resources, examples of what works/what doesn't, and how best to function as developmental appropriate and market the space with confidence.
    Thank you, all.

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    Teresa Franz]
    Director, Child Development Center
    SCOESC
    New Boston, Ohio
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  • 2.  RE: Making the most of environment in classroom with very limited natural light

    Posted 06-13-2021 09:40 PM
    I too have a classroom with very limited natural light and would much appreciate suggestions! It also suffers from poor acoustics, so it gets very loud during free play, just from the children's conversations. It has a hard ceiling. Any suggestions for sound dampening options? Thank you!

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    Amy Gottschamer
    Executive Director
    Googols of Learning Child Development Center
    Lawrence KS
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  • 3.  RE: Making the most of environment in classroom with very limited natural light

    Posted 06-15-2021 11:39 AM
    Hi Amy, I also had problems with the acoustics in the classroom. Mine was because of our vinyl floor. So I carpeted part of the classroom. Messy area still has vinyl. But the loudness decreased incredibly. If you think it is the ceiling, they have fabric or foam panels you can use. I think sound bounces off walls first. So you can hang them on wall. Maybe the children can paint the panels as a project. Hope you find a solution. 😊

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    Shariya Dhammapala
    Olympia WA
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  • 4.  RE: Making the most of environment in classroom with very limited natural light

    Posted 06-15-2021 08:54 AM
    That is sad that natural light is limited but need to work with what you have. what I feel is that if there is a window with some natural light placing large mirrors to reflect the light will brighten the room. Kids love to look at the mirrors. Has to be safe and shatter proof. 
    Having some artificial greenery for green space helps
    A cozy reading corner across from the window with light helps.
    Bright Carpets 
    In general using the light reflection concepts and creating an artificial turf, pictures of out door scenery and farm lands 
    Bright colored chairs

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    [Meena Chintapalli, M.D. F.A.A.P
    Founder and C. E.O of A thru Z Pediatric Clinics, retired December, 2018.
    Founder and CEO of The SAI Institute Of Educare
    April, 2002.
    Society For Assistance International
    San Antonio, Texas.[FirstName]
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  • 5.  RE: Making the most of environment in classroom with very limited natural light

    Posted 06-17-2021 11:24 PM
    Hello Teresa,

    We replaced the light bulbs with Halogen bulbs, a type of incandescent that gives a close approximation of natural daylight, known as "white light." Colors appear sharper under halogen light and the bulbs can be dimmed. They're a little more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs, but they're more expensive and burn at a higher temperature.

    I noticed a difference.
    Sincerely,

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    Melanie Smith
    The Preschool Doctor
    thepreschooldoctor.com
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