Access to enriching environments in early childhood: Paradise lost?

Abstract

Children need adults who respect, support, and facilitate their learning, but also know when to leave well alone. Who appreciate a rich learning environment—of which they themselves are a part—and can create or give children access to it. In a rich learning environment children have permission to explore; are given subtle invitations to do so; can solve problems for themselves; can create, reach understanding, and acquire skills and knowledge; and much more. It is an environment that fosters self-reliance, self-realization, and independence, and that encourages children to take initiative and leadership, to improvise, and to make decisions. It respects and values beauty, tranquillity, and serendipity. This chapter strives to help adults develop their understanding of children, and thus to develop awareness of what a rich learning environment looks like, so they may better meet and share the genius of the child.