Preschool buildings, equipment, outdoor play areas and the surrounding area form the learning environment of a preschool because preschool children learn both outdoors and indoors. The organization, design and use of the learning environment reflect the attitudes and values ​​that underlie preschool work. The environment is also an important factor in children’s learning, and its design, use and organization must take into account the experience, skills and interests of a group of children with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The organization of the learning environment should create a framework for children’s autonomy.

The preschool environment should take into account ensuring the safety and well-being of children and staff, such as regarding furnishings, space, acoustics, lighting, air quality and ventilation. When planning the indoor and outdoor learning environment of a preschool, the goals of the preschool work, usability and aesthetic aspects should be taken into account. The environment must be safe, healthy and at the same time inspiring and attractive. Care should be taken in the planning and design of an environment where children’s work can be enjoyed. The preschool learning environment must be suitable for diverse groups of children. It must be able to change and develop with regard to the needs and interests of those who stay there. Children and parents should be given the opportunity to influence the planning of the learning environment in consultation with the preschool staff.

Accommodation should be designed to encourage interaction between children, between staff and children, and between staff and parents. There should be areas for small group play and learning, spaces where children can be quiet and private, areas where children can play in larger groups, and spaces where there is room for a variety of activities. The preschool environment needs to be flexible so that children can use it in a variety of ways and move freely from one place to another, gain ideas, and use the materials available.

Preschool materials should be varied and appeal to different children of different ages. It is important to re-evaluate and develop play materials regularly. Play materials need to be inspiring and appeal to different senses and stimulate children to research and explore. It is important that children can use play materials in a variety of ways, based on their experiences and diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Play materials need to be accessible to children. Space and materials need to arouse children’s curiosity and encourage their imagination, creativity and expression so that their ideas are enjoyed.

A preschool is an important learning space that should encourage children to play, explore, move, and express themselves in different ways. To do this, consideration must be given to diversity, including in the landscape, soil, vegetation, and the materials that the children have access to.

The immediate environment of a preschool is diverse and varies depending on the location of the preschool. Nature offers a variety of materials and many opportunities for research and discovery. The human-made environment in the vicinity of a preschool is also an important learning environment that children need to have the opportunity to get to know and learn from.