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A YES Environment: Promoting Positivity in Your Classroom

by Kaila Weingarten
September/October 2014
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Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/a-yes-environment-promoting-positivity-in-your-classroom/5021948/

A recent study from UCLA found that toddlers hear “no” an average of 400 times a day. How can we cut back on the negativity and create a positive classroom? Young children are born with a healthy curiosity, and they need the freedom to safely explore their surroundings to discover what their world is all about. They learn by using their senses, ­especially through touch and play. It is important to not inhibit this natural inquisitiveness by constantly reprimanding ­children for touching things.

Everyone needs a YES environment to do their best. A YES environment is a safe, positive place that encourages ­personal growth by allowing the freedom of reasonable risk taking. For children, this means a place:

• that is secure and childproof, so safety concerns do not hinder children’s independence.
• where they can independently learn and explore.
• where predictable, yet flexible, routines and schedules contribute to a warm, caring environment.
• equipped with toys, supplies, and activities that are ­developmentally appropriate and readily available.
• where no centers are off limits or ‘closed’ for the day.
• where items not intended for children are placed out of reach.
• where the word "no" is used in moderation; therefore, children are more ...

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