Group Area

• Designate an area of the classroom where the entire group can meet for sharing, story time or instructions. Choose a corner if possible, so all the students can sit facing the corner, reducing distractions. Place carpet squares on the ground or draw squares using masking tape on the floor of the group area so each child can sit in his designated spot. Set out a box of bean bags, squishy toys and foam balls nearby, since some special-needs children can get fidgety and may benefit from having something to hold.
  
  

Quiet Area

• Some preschoolers with special needs can become agitated by too much stimulation. Creating an area for quiet and relaxation gives these children a place to go when they feel overwhelmed. This area can be a corner that’s far from any doorways, or you can cordon off an area using shelves. Make this space cozy, with plenty of pillows, blankets and bean bag chairs that children can use for comfort when necessary. Set up the classroom library near this spot so children can grab books to explore while they relax.
  
  

Learning Centers

• Creating a variety of engaging centers gives your preschoolers the opportunity to explore and strengthen their motor skills. Create a sensory center by bringing in a sensory table or large plastic boxes. Each week, fill the table with materials that provide different sensory experiences, such as uncooked rice, sand or water. Set up a fine motor center, where preschoolers will find bins filled with stackable blocks and cars they can roll back and forth. A pretend play center that’s stocked with dress-up clothes and a toy kitchen allows your special needs students to play together.
  
  

Tables

• Tables are necessary for children to eat and work at, so plenty of activity will happen here. Arrange tables near the classroom doorway so that the rest of the classroom can be quieter. If possible, use a variety of smaller tables with three or four children at each table. These tables give students more breathing room. Leave several feet of space between tables so teachers can easily move around and help each child eat or work.