Access and independence
Flexible environments
Flexible environments respond to children's changing interests, ideas and ways of learning. Small changes can create new possibilities for exploration, creativity and participation.
- Flexible environments adapt to children's changing interests, ideas and needs.
- Everyday places can be used in many different ways throughout the day.
- Small changes can create new opportunities for play and learning.
- Children develop creativity, problem-solving and independence when they can influence their environments.
- Flexible environments often involve small, temporary changes rather than major redesigns.
Through a child's eyes...
“When I can use places in different ways, my ideas and imagination can grow.”
In everyday moments...
Children's interests, abilities and ways of playing change over time. Flexible environments allow everyday places to be used in different ways.
Simple ideas to try
- The kitchen table becoming an art or construction space.
- Cushions and blankets transforming into a cubby or quiet retreat.
- Taking activities outdoors to provide new perspectives.
- Creating temporary spaces that reflect children's current interests.
- Inviting children to suggest new ways to use familiar places.
Building through relationships...
Flexible environments do not require major changes or large homes. Small adjustments to places, materials and routines can create new possibilities for play and learning.
Simple ideas to try
- Use everyday places for different purposes throughout the day.
- Introduce open-ended materials that can be used in many ways.
- Create temporary areas that reflect children's changing interests.
- Allow children to adapt places and materials during play.
- Review environments regularly to ensure they continue to meet children's needs.
Learning through play...
As children experience flexible environments, they learn to:
Simple ideas to try
- think creatively and imaginatively
- adapt to change
- solve problems and test ideas
- make decisions and take initiative
- develop agency and independence
- view environments as places full of possibilities
Creating supportive spaces...
Flexible environments work best when adults remain responsive to children's changing interests, ideas and developmental needs.
Simple ideas to try
- Observe how children use places and materials.
- Be open to using familiar places in new ways.
- Follow children's interests when adapting environments.
- Involve children in decisions about their environments.
- Balance predictability with opportunities for change and exploration.
Supporting children across contexts...
At home ...
Simple ideas to try
- Create temporary play spaces rather than permanent set-ups.
- Rotate materials to reflect changing interests.
- Encourage children to suggest new ways to use familiar places.
- Use everyday household items and spaces creatively.
In early learning settings...
Simple ideas to try
- Adapt environments in response to children's emerging interests and investigations.
- Provide open-ended materials that encourage multiple uses.
- Encourage children to contribute ideas about how environments are organised.
- Regularly reflect on how environments are supporting children's engagement and participation.
Try this today...
- Invite your child to suggest a new use for a familiar place in your home or setting.
- Move an activity to a different place and observe what changes.
- Create a temporary space that reflects your child's current interests.
- Rotate or add a few materials to inspire new possibilities for play.
- Ask yourself, "How might this place be used differently?"