October 13, 2011
Our only security is our ability to change.
-John Lilly
The latest Exchange publication, Rating Observation Scale for Inspiring Environments, which is an evaluation tool for the Exchange book Inspiring Spaces for Young Children, provides an opportunity to evaluate among other things, the way color is used in your program. Inspiring Spaces offers this insight on using color:
“Color can be powerful in both positive and negative ways. It can evoke feelings and emotions, give importance to areas or objects, define spaces, and reflect children’s homes or communities. Sometimes, however, color can have a negative effect. Using many colors in a classroom results in a chaotic feeling because it is too visually stimulating. Also, keep in mind the intensity of the colo rs in the classroom. Bright yellows, reds, and blues can overwhelm children’s emotional well being, so use primary colors conservatively…
“Most centers do not have an abundance of money to spend on paint, wall coverings, and carpets. Therefore, when choosing colors for larger items, it is important to think neutral, as these colors tend to outlast trends. Then bring in splashes of trendy colors with inexpensive decorative elements such as area rugs, wall hangings, pillows, and children’s artwork.”
