The Classroom

'What is certain is that children who are enabled to feel safe and secure will be much more able to be themselves and to try out new ideas in the various relationships and experiences on offer in the nursery.' Key Persons in the Nursery, Peter Elfer, Elinor Goldschmied, Dorothy Selleck Pg 21

The Nursery environment plays such an important role in a child's development. Reflecting on the statement above I actually believe that the same could be applied to any child, teenager or indeed adult. It is only natural that when you feel relaxed and settled that you would be more at ease in trying new experiences, to contribute deeper thoughts and feelings, hence develop and learn at a faster rate.

I would find it difficult to believe that there is any classroom/Nursery that does not strive to achieve this. Ultimately all teachers want to provide the best learning environment for the children in their care. Some, if course, will do this better than others, but fundamentally the classroom is created with the child, and learning in mind. With windows for light and fresh air, wall space for displays and colour and chairs and desks for comfort - although some would disagree with this!

However, interestingly for me it is not so much the environment that puts a child at ease, but the people who move and work within the environment. The teacher clearly has an important role to play in this, providing support, encouragement and allowing for team work to take place. Similarly the children themselves also play an important role in supporting one another, often simply by listening and responding appropriately - skills which are ultimately taught by the teacher.

It is ease to get caught up in the daily teaching of subjects such as maths, language and other academic subjects. However, it is clear to me that emphasis should actually be placed on social and personal skills above all else as, without these attributes, children will not be working within an optimum learning environment.

But what is the balance between academia and emotional intelligence, and is there time to get the balance right?