RESEARCH|Education
Building Blocks:An EarlyLearningContinuumBuilding Blocks: An EarlyLearning Continuum
A child-centred framework that reimagines early learning centres as flexible, permeable and responsive community hubs, uniting a central “campfire” commons, dedicated child-sized playrooms and outdoor learning.
Insight
Many centres still follow a linear, teacher-centric typology that limits flexibility and discourages cross-classroom interaction. Building skins are often impermeable which weakens connection with families and the broader community. Building Blocks addresses these limits with a people-centred spatial framework that places a welcoming check-in, a shared “campfire” commons, purpose-designed playrooms and outdoor learning at the core.
Key take-aways
OPEN THRESHOLDS THAT INVITE COMMUNITY
A soft check-in provides the first point of contact for children, carers and community members while maintaining appropriate security. Increased facade porosity enables internal and external commons that support holistic care and allied-health collaboration.
THE "CAMPFIRE" AS EVERYDAY COMMONS
Breaking down rigid rooms creates a central commons that extends every program, supports child-led exploration and enables cross-age learning with acoustic control to reduce stress.
CHILD-SIZED, REPONSIVE PLAYROOMS
Playrooms function as children’s own spaces. Fixed and moveable joinery, creative dividers and stimulus shelters create varied activity settings while allowing retreat and sensory regulation. Rooms adapt over time as children grow.
OUTDOOR LEARNING AS A TEACHER
Indoor-to-outdoor activity settings support risky play, sustainable learning and ongoing discovery beyond the boundary fence. Permeable outdoor layouts allow age groups to mix when appropriate using moveable elements and planting.
AT A GLANCE
A four-part spatial framework: Check-in, Campfire, Playrooms, Outdoor environment.
Design drivers: Flexible, permeable and responsive architecture that supports child-led learning.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL PAPER
Get the complete publication including the framework, diagrams, precedents and practical guidance for adapting existing centres as well as new builds.
