Babies need environments that are emotinionally nurturing to thrive. Their sense of wellbeing is enhanced when they have access to ‘interesting and challenging play materials in well-designed and prepared spaces, indoors and out’, according to Julia Manning-Morton, author of From Birth to Three: An Early Years Educator’s Handbook. But at the heart of effective provision is the quality of the relationship between practitioner and the infant.
Three key design principles to consider when setting up a baby room are: space to move; sensory stimulation; and conducive environments for sleep.
Is there adequate floor space for babies to crawl, wriggle, roll and stretch? Are there sensorily stimulating resources to support early brain development, fine motor skills development and communication skills? Are there quiet, safe, contained spaces where infants can go to rest and sleep?
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