How Do You Use Color?

10/13/2011

I think that childhood is the very first chapter in your book and if we're going to have a whole story, a whole life, then we've got to know what childhood is about.
Bev Bos, 1934-2016, preschool director and international speaker

The latest Exchange publication, Rating Observation Scale for Inspiring Environments, which is an evaluation tool for the Exchange book Inspiring Spaces for Young Children, provides an opportunity to evaluate among other things, the way color is used in your program. Inspiring Spaces offers this insight on using color:

"Color can be powerful in both positive and negative ways. It can evoke feelings and emotions, give importance to areas or objects, define spaces, and reflect children's homes or communities. Sometimes, however, color can have a negative effect. Using many colors in a classroom results in a chaotic feeling because it is too visually stimulating. Also, keep in mind the intensity of the colors in the classroom. Bright yellows, reds, and blues can overwhelm children's emotional well being, so use primary colors conservatively...

"Most centers do not have an abundance of money to spend on paint, wall coverings, and carpets. Therefore, when choosing colors for larger items, it is important to think neutral, as these colors tend to outlast trends. Then bring in splashes of trendy colors with inexpensive decorative elements such as area rugs, wall hangings, pillows, and children's artwork."

Earn 50% on every

Dutch Mill Bulbs Sale

Only $6.00 per order and 50% profit on every sale. Your bank account will start Greening up!

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.