Here Comes the Sun
Great projects start with great ideas! The first step in any project should be thoughtful design. The design process not only allows you to put an idea to paper, but it can also bring to light and help avoid potential problems. Take Beautiful Beginnings in Providence for example. This center received a Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge Facility Grant to make improvements to their outdoor space. One item of concern they wanted to address was providing adequate shade for their infants and toddlers. Their architect put together a series of sun diagrams that illustrated the effects of shadows at certain points of the day. An interesting outcome of doing this study was that a proposed awning attached to the building would not provide the necessary shade at the time of day when children would be outside. Had it not been for these diagrams a costly and ineffective strategy would have been implemented. The end result will be the addition of mature trees that can immediately provide the much needed shade, and also add interest and natural components to the entry and play space. Another great example of how investment in early design can add to the quality and effectiveness of the environment!
In This Issue
Design Considerations for Quality Child Care Facilities and the Top 10 Mistakes Made in the Interior Design of Child Care Centers
Can Gardening Have an Impact on Absenteeism? Hear One Teacher’s Story.
Financing Early Care and Education in Rhode Island
Coming Soon – RICCELFF Online Training Courses