Do you ever consider what the outside of your centre says to those who pass by? A lot of effort is made to ensure that the walls inside speak of what we believe in. The resources reflect our beliefs about young children and their capabilities, and our documentation celebrates the capable child.
But what about the outside of your centre? The front gate, the name of your center—what do they announce to the unknowing outsider who has yet to step foot inside?
Environments speak; in fact, they speak loudly. They portray our beliefs; they are what researchers call ‘the moment of truth.’ That is, they are the first things individuals come in contact with, and they send a clear message to the world about our beliefs.
So, think about what messages individuals download at the front gate as well as the front door. Remember, they haven’t met you or your colleagues yet but are forming an opinion. Do these spaces reflect your beliefs or not? Does the name of your service and logo uphold and reflect your beliefs about children? What about the environment? What might a dead plant at the front door say, or rubbish outside the gate, or endless signage about communicable diseases stuck on the front door portray to families?
The fact is, you don’t have to say much to express what you believe in.