ABSTRACT
In the previous chapter, we considered the importance of establishing a safe and secure physical and emotional environment for boys and girls, based on our understanding of how children typically develop and learn. We explored ways to enhance the environment to account for the specific developmental needs of some boys who need additional support for their language development, fine motor development and their ability to regulate their learning and behaviour in a group setting. This chapter shows how we can:
•• observe children to determine how developmentally appropriate the environment is, and how well it motivates children to learn through their play;
•• set up a physical environment that allows boys to be confident, active learners, and that encourages girls to be confident and active learners as well;
•• tune into the interests of boys so that we can provide stimulating spaces and resources for all children;
•• offer adult support to prompt new investigations and support children’s exploratory play and learning.
