---
title: Why Heart-Centered Environments Matter | Kaplan Early Learning Company
description: Discover the importance of heart-centered classroom design through the eyes of Sense of Place creator, Sandra Duncan, EdD.
image: https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_a-1-2.jpg
---

# Why Heart-Centered Environments Matter

AdminNovember 15, 2019[Buying Guides](https://blog.kaplanco.com/dev/tag/buying-guides), [Classroom Setup](https://blog.kaplanco.com/dev/tag/classroom-setup), [Learning Centers](https://blog.kaplanco.com/dev/tag/learning-centers), [Furniture](https://blog.kaplanco.com/dev/tag/furniture), [Sense of Place](https://blog.kaplanco.com/dev/tag/sense-of-place)4 minute read

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![Why Heart-Centered Environments Matter](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_a-1-2.jpg)

The Sense of Place preschool furniture collection is beautifully and intentionally designed to inspire preschooler's wonder and to nurture their growth and development. It not only celebrates the spirit of place but rejoices in the wonder of childhood. Woven throughout this collection are four design beliefs that I consider essential and are the underlying foundation for the creation of this spirited collection.

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](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_2_a-1-2.jpg)

Scientific research is now confirming there is a significant link between young children's internal beings and their external environments. We know, for example, that bright primary colors can have a negative influence on children's behaviors and their ability to focus. We also know that our brains are wired to make connections but, in order for these connections to successfully occur, children need simplicity and organization in their environments. It is widely accepted that we all react—whether consciously or unconsciously—to the surrounding environment. Sights, sounds, smells, temperatures, over stimulation as well as under stimulation dramatically impact children's behaviors, moods, physical, and cognitive development. More significantly, research is beginning to tell us that, in order to develop positive relationships with others, the early childhood environment must meet the basic needs of young children such as safety, security, and a sense of comfort and a feeling of love. Children must feel they belong and can make important contributions to the classroom.

![ 
](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_3_a-1-2.jpg)

When creating the Sense of Place furniture collection, there was considerable thought given to the importance of fostering children's social and emotional development. I faced the challenge of incorporating into the furniture pieces ideas such as the (1) notion of children's feelings, (2) sense of place and home, and (3) everyone's longing to belong. This challenge was answered through the creation of several pieces of furniture in the collection. For example, the living room furniture with its ***fireplace***, comfortable couch and chair, and beautiful rugs composed of nature's colors (i.e., blue and green) as well as natural patterns and designs. In addition to feeling comfort, young children feel right-at-home when they find a book and cozy-up either on the chair and couch or on the soft rugs. The fireplace mantel and bookshelves are perfect spots for children's framed artwork or photographs of children actively engaged in open-ended activities. Personalize the fireplace by using natural objects found outside such as sticks or tree bark. Make logs for pretend fires out of construction paper or foil. Search outside for sticks. Add battery-powered lights or flickering lamps to represent the soft glow of a warm fire. If participating in this type of activity, be sure to talk to the children about fire safety in real life.

![ 
](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_4_a-1-2.jpg)

Another piece of the Sense of Place furniture designed to promote children's sense of belonging includes the ***curio cabinet***. Designed to honor children's work and to offer opportunities for them to curate their work or displays, the curio cabinet gives children a sense of belonging and accomplishment when their wonderful works of art are displayed with integrity and beauty. The reflective mirrors and open sides were specifically included so the objects on the shelves are easily placed, seen, and admired.

![ 
](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_5_a-1-2.jpg)

The farm table's benches were also a deliberate addition to the Sense of Place collection. When compared to children sitting in individual chairs, research has found that benches better promote children's socialization. When children are sitting in benches, they are more likely to "skootch" together, share materials, collaborate, and enter into conversations. Indeed, benches promote a sense of belonging or community and it is with great enthusiasm that they were included in this furniture collection.

Here are some ways you can personalize the classroom by adding a sense of belonging and comfort:

 

 

 

 

 

 

![ 
](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_6_a-1-2.jpg)

![](https://blog.kaplanco.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/sense-of-place-design_7_a-1-2.jpg)

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