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Two children playing on the Magnetic LED STEM Center
Provide opportunities for open-ended play
A healing environment is a play-based environment.

Language rich

A play-based environment is language rich.

Young children's need for engaging in creative, spontaneous play; having warm, caring interactions with interested and committed adults; and engaging in authentic activities, rich with experiences that pique intellectual curiosity, remains universal and unchanged. What has changed for a significant number of children, however, not only in the United States but across the globe, is the world in which children are growing up.

Karen L. Peterson, PhDHelping Them Heal: How Teachers Can Support Young Children Who Experience Stress and Trauma

Add nature

Incorporate natural elements for investigations, sorting, and water play.