Supportive and Stimulating Learning Environment

Discussion Question Session 12: Answer fully in the discussion forum. Cite the text when possible:
To develop and learn, young children need a supportive and stimulating learning environment. There are many factors that need to be considered in creating such a classroom environment. Please pick two of the following topics (or another of your choosing based on your own research) and discuss the key ideas of these elements and why you think they are important. Feel free to discuss any from a critical lens.
• Warm and caring relationships
• A stimulating environment (the environment as the third teacher)
• An inclusive learning environment
• A stimulating outdoor environment (for example, the advantages and disadvantages of plastic vs wooden)
• Risk-taking vs safety
Session 12: Early Childhood Learning Environments 
Readings:
• NAEYC: Inspired by Reggio Emilia: Emergent Curriculum in Relationship-Driven Learning Environments:
• Merril & Sheehan (2018). Building Positive Learning Environments for Young Children Starts with You). 
• Learning Environments: 
Unit Outcomes:
• Explore and discuss the ways in which teachers design classroom environments and configure spaces to promote learning (aligning physical space with instructional goals)
• Examine and discuss classroom management strategies (i.e., setting expectations, managing transitions, building relationships, etc.)