Four creative learning environments that work for kids

School is a very different place than what today’s adults experienced. In this series of blogs, we examine the science behind a modern education and why it’s beneficial to your child.

When a child is given the freedom to be creative, the possibilities of what they can accomplish are endless. Creativity is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to education. Creative learning environments help children thrive when utilized properly in an educational setting.

>>What makes an international school a great choice for education<<

Below, we explore four examples of creative learning environments that work for kids.

1. Wet areas/indoor sand

A wet play area can include many options from small pools, toys incorporating flowing water, a large basin of water, spending time outside in rainy weather, and more.

Wet play areas have been shown to be particularly beneficial for children’s educational growth. Among those benefits, water play helps develop motor skills, language, science, and mathematics learning.

Indoor sand can also be used as a substitute for flowing water play areas.

2. Secret gardens

Secret gardens are a great way to bring the benefits of the outdoors into an indoor space. A secret garden is an indoor terrace and activity center with skylights to provide natural sunlight, as well as a comfortable space to learn.

According to a report prepared by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, there are proven academic benefits that come with exposure to natural light during the school day.

In the study of 21,000 elementary school students, children who were exposed to more sunlight during the school day had 26 percent higher reading outcomes and 20 percent higher math outcomes than students who didn’t have the same exposure. Your children will reap rewards from being in a school that provides naturally lit learning environments.

3. Outdoor learning environments (OLE)

An outdoor learning environment is critical for ensuring your child receives a well-rounded education from their school. Click here to learn more about the benefits of an OLE. 

This report for Plymouth University makes clear the benefits of outdoor learning. They include full-body health, increased confidence, and teaching children the importance of maintaining an active role in their education. Creative learning spaces are just one characteristic of a positive learning environment. Discover how ISB facilities support student learning here.

4. Flexible, open, and adaptable classrooms

To help our students excel in the 21st century, we make our learning environments flexible, open, and adaptable – classrooms that can move with our students, such as our Flex Space.

With movable walls, versatile seating, and an adjacent design lab full of tools and laser cutters, it is a large, versatile space perfect for hosting design challenges, group activities, and interdisciplinary learning that wouldn't be possible in conventional classrooms. Discover how ISB has created a challenging and joyful learning experience by redefining what academic rigor means for our students.

Unique learning environments, such as the four explored above, help us provide an education that empowers students with purpose and compassion, characteristics that prepare students for life.