Learning Environments
How does my learning environment support children’s development, curiosity, and sense of belonging as my child care business begins or grows?
The Learning Environments section supports Orange County’s future, current, and expanding child care providers by offering essential guidance for designing nurturing, developmentally appropriate spaces where children can explore, play, and grow. This section includes focused guidance for both Family Child Care Homes (FCCs) and Child Care Centers, reflecting best practices and quality standards for each setting.
Family Child Care Homes and Child Care Centers each create learning environments in different ways. FCCs operate within home-based spaces that serve mixed-age groups and require flexible use of space, materials, and routines. Center-based providers design environments across multiple classrooms and shared spaces, requiring intentional planning to support learning, inclusion, and smooth transitions. This section highlights these differences while reinforcing shared principles of quality and inclusion.
Across both subsections, providers will find guidance on organizing environments, selecting developmentally appropriate materials, and designing indoor and outdoor spaces that support learning across developmental domains. Content aligns with CLASS® 2nd Edition, CLASS® Environments, Environment Rating Scales (including FCCERS), and inclusive classroom frameworks. Embedded Learning strategies are emphasized to support all children, including those with IFSPs, IEPs, or additional support needs, by integrating learning opportunities naturally into daily routines.
Whether setting up a home-based learning space, refreshing classrooms, or expanding services to new age groups, this section helps providers create environments that foster curiosity, independence, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging for every child.
