Literacy & Language Center

The 3-5 year olds' classroom in Turner is equipped with a computer station for children which includes CD roms. All computer games (and any other electronic and visual media) are screened for developmental appropriateness as well as non-bias. A surprising amount of social interaction takes place as children "coach" each other during computer play.

Children's Books are stored low for children's easy access and to entice interest. Notice how plants help create a "homey" feel.

Glider for teacher story reading and cozy lap reading.

This message center encourages children to see how literacy is put to practical use. Pencils, colored markers and crayons encourage children to master writing tools. Children can address messages, including envelopes, to one another using the provided photos of each child (gray bins below on the right). Children can also choose to address messages by pasting alphabet letters cut from magazines (available in the gray bins to the left below.) 

The pillow bed is for relaxing with a book, chatting with a best buddy or playing with puppets. The aquarium next to it provides a soothing sound and casts a soft "night light" during nap time.