This book is intended as a resource for those who create, adapt, and cope with settings for young children. It focuses particularly on all-day child care settings. Part 1, "Understanding Children's Settings," explores the power of the environment, or the "landscape" of children's lives--the array of settings they inhabit--and analyzes the…

Points out mistakes that could be avoided in planning the physical environment of day care centers. Cites importance of considering (1) the size scale required for use of facilities by children and largely female staff; (2) the scope of activities at the center; and (3) the behavior of staff and children. (NH)

Discusses change and environmental design as they relate to child care staff and participants. Development of children's settings requires the involvement of the community, especially architects, designers, builders, licensers, child care professionals, parents, and children. (RJC)

Explores the major problems with many of the new state-of-the-art buildings designed to house child care programs and concludes that the buildings are too small. (BB)

Discusses various factors which need to be considered when designing physical environments for infants and toddlers in child care settings. Along with the developmental differences and needs of infants and toddlers, these factors include health and safety, variety, flexibility, scale and proportion, softness and responsiveness, and harmony and…

The process of designing a child care center is described. This process includes the conceptual and schematic design, schematic pricing, design development, and construction documents. Overall design criteria, and interior program components, are discussed. (LB)

Argues that the secret to producing quality child care in the 1990s will be clear, innovative thinking by the center or program director, good center design, and an ability to articulate and sell a vision of quality. (BB)