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Because the interests of children of different ages differ, much of the equipment that supports key areas of play will also differ. For example, older babies are often interested in taking things apart and learning to crawl up and over things. Older children can be more focused on building things and putting things together, such as complicated block play or puzzles.
When designing areas of play, consider ways to provide enough space to make sure children can explore their interests without disturbing each other's 'work'.
Indoor activity area – floor space#
While more space is desirable, you must at least meet the regulated minimum requirements for indoor activity space.
The minimum indoor activity space is 2.5 square metres per child. This space is calculated clear of all furniture, fittings, fixed equipment and stored goods, and excluding:
- passageways
- toilet facilities
- staff rooms
- specific sleeping areas for children aged under 2
- other areas not available for play.
Measurements will be made by the Ministry of Education during your probationary licensing visit.
If a centre is catering to a large age range, more space may be needed to support a range of learning opportunities and adequate quiet space.
Infants and toddlers#
If you have infants and toddlers, they need enough space so there are safe floor surfaces to lie on, crawl on and practice walking.
Consider having separate infant and toddler areas to provide space, equipment and resources that best support their learning and so they can have at least part of their day in a part of a relatively small group. Research has found that having separate spaces for young children is very important for their development.
To create separate spaces for infants and toddlers to explore, you could use:
- barriers
- risers
- shelf units
- other furniture.
See the relevant regulation and licensing criteria.
Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008, Schedule 4 – New Zealand Legislation
Floor surfaces#
Choose floor surfaces that are safe, durable, and easy to clean to suit the range of activities in your service. Consider how much time children spend on the floor when choosing a floor type.
It is a good rule of thumb to have about two-thirds hard surface and one-third carpet in the children's indoor play area. This is because a lot of messy play – such as paint, clay and water – is transported to other areas.
Different types of flooring#
Well-maintained wooden, particle, cork or vinyl floors are most suitable in an area used for messy play, and in dining areas.
Vinyl
Vinyl that extends a little way up the wall is easier to clean and is more hygienic over long periods of time. It eliminates joins at the edge of the floor.
The Building Code may require vinyl in the toilet and kitchen areas to extend 75mm up the wall.
Carpet and mats
Carpet is better in a book or block area.
Mats are useful because they can be removed for cleaning and can be moved to reorganise the learning environment from time to time. Semi-permanent tape can attach a mat to the floor so it does not become a trip hazard.
Flooring for infants and toddlers#
If you have infants and toddlers at your centre it is good for them to have the opportunity to explore a range of texture. A range of mixed flooring types may be one way to provide this. You may want to consider under-floor heating.
See the flooring licensing criterion.
