Like most teachers I have been in the classroom organizing, cleaning and thinking about my new group of Kinders. As I design the space I imagine how the children will use it, inspiring me to create a learning environment that is flexible, encourages community and nurtures child initiated learning. Although I know that changes will be made once school begins I need to take the time now before the chaos of September to be thoughtfull about the bones of the environment. We know that the benefits of child initiated learning activities contribute to their academic, social and emotional development well beyond Kindergarten. Opportunities for growth must be provided through the Kindergarten environment.       In this photo a group of Kinders used trial and error to solve the problem of the fabric roof sliding off. After many different methods which required them to listen to each other, they decided to move the furniture closer together and tuck the fabric under the sofa c...