Walk into a preschool and you’ll notice quickly that it’s not just the teachers and the children that shape the atmosphere, the environment itself plays a powerful role. In fact, early childhood educators often refer to the environment as the “third teacher,” sitting alongside adults and peers in influencing a child’s learning journey.
At Garden International School’s (GIS) newly refurbished Early Years Centre (EYC), this principle has been brought to life, with purpose-built spaces designed to nurture independence, curiosity and confidence in their youngest learners.
Parents, here’s the exciting part — this redesign isn’t just about school spaces. It shows how the right environment can spark curiosity, confidence and joy in children — and many of these ideas can be brought right into your home.
Learning Through Movement: The Power of Physical Play
One of the standout features of GIS’s revamped EYC is the new Perceptual–Motor Programme (PMP) room. Filled with a ball pit, climbing apparatus, and balance beams, this isn’t just a play gym. It’s a space where children are strengthening balance, coordination, and spatial awareness — all while building confidence by taking healthy risks in a safe environment.
“Children love exploring these spaces together,” Assistant Head of Primary, Antonia Confalone explains. “Whether they’re helping a friend across a beam or helping each other to collect the balls to return them to the pit, they’re learning important interpersonal skills like empathy, communication and teamwork.”
For parents, the takeaway is simple: opportunities for movement, challenge and fun aren’t luxuries — they’re central to growth. Even at home, a taped line on the floor to walk along, or cushions to hop across, can become mini versions of these confidence-building adventures.
Spaces That Foster Independence
One of the simplest yet most powerful design decisions at the EYC was moving storage — bag hangers, cubbies, even toilets — down to child height. Suddenly, children can hang their own bags, manage their lunchboxes, and take responsibility for belongings without needing adult help.
“By placing storage at their level, children are encouraged to manage their own bags, hats, lunch boxes and resources. This boosts independence, confidence and a sense of ownership in their daily routines,” Ms Antonia shares.
This philosophy extends into self-care, too. Child-sized toilets may seem like a small detail, but they’re critical for building toileting independence, a milestone that reduces anxiety, boosts confidence, and frees up children’s energy for learning and play.
At home, parents can apply the same principle: place toy baskets, coat hooks, or even snack containers within easy reach. The more a child can manage independently, the more they feel trusted, capable, and confident.
Balancing Energy with Calm
Not every moment of a child’s day should be action-packed. Recognising the importance of balance, GIS’s EYC features cosy nooks — inviting corners with soft furnishings and books where children can retreat.
“These spaces help children regulate themselves,” says Ms Antonia. “They support their emotional wellbeing and literacy also by encouraging independent reading, reflection or simply a moment to recharge during a busy day,” she adds.
Parents can easily recreate this at home with a small tent, a beanbag by a bookshelf, or a corner with cushions. It signals to children that it’s okay to pause, reflect, and recharge.
A Home Away From Home
The overall design at the EYC is warm and welcoming, with natural wooden furniture.
“The use of natural materials like wood is intentional. Wooden furniture has a calming aesthetic, is often more durable, and reflects a commitment to sustainability, all while contributing to a homelike atmosphere that helps children feel secure and grounded,” explains Ms Antonia.
This blending of aesthetics with functionality is something parents can borrow. Choosing natural textures, rotating toys to avoid overwhelm, and creating accessible, child-friendly layouts can all help make a home feel like a nurturing space for curiosity and growth.
Beyond Early Years: Building Lifelong Skills
What difference does all of this make in the long run? According to GIS, the benefits extend well beyond the preschool years.
“Young children learn best through exploration and interaction with their surroundings. A thoughtfully designed environment, one that is scaled to the child’s size, sensory needs and interests, empowers them to make choices, solve problems and engage meaningfully with learning,” concludes Ms Antonia.
Bringing It Home: Simple Parent Hacks
The great news for parents is that you can create the same kind of benefits in simple, everyday ways. Here are a few easy ideas inspired by GIS’s Early Years Centre that you can try at home:
- Child-height storage for toys and clothes to foster independence.
- Natural materials (wooden toys, soft textiles) for a calming environment.
- Cosy corners with books and soft lighting for quiet reflection.
- Simple movement activities like creating a ‘balance beam’ with tape or pillow “stepping stones.”
- Toy rotation to spark curiosity without clutter.
A Space to Feel Valued
If there’s one message GIS hopes children take away from their time in the redesigned EYC, it’s this: you are empowered, you are curious, and you are valued as this space was built just for you to explore, grow and thrive.
The environments we create, whether in schools or at home, can play a profound role in shaping how our children see themselves and the world. With thoughtful design, we can give them not just a place to play, but a foundation to thrive.
This is a sponsored post by Garden International School (GIS).
Want a chance to explore and visit the newly-designed space at their Early Years Centre? Drop by their Open Day on 7th October 2025 or 14th October 2025. Enjoy a 100% Application Fee Rebate* and a 50% Registration Fee Discount* when you apply during their Open Day promotion [*Terms and conditions apply.]
To arrange your personalised tour of GIS’ Early Years Centre (EYC), contact their friendly Admissions Team, or visit their website.
