A Little Oasis In East L.A.

For my birthday this year, I would like to create an outdoor quiet area for the free/low cost state preschool that I teach in, which is part of a non-profit organization based in East L.A. More about Plaza Community Services here. Quiet areas play an important role in social-emotional development by providing children with comfortable spaces to do calming activities or just get away from daily hustle and bustle.  I hope to have the area ready to go by the first week of the new year!

Unfortunately, the outdoor books have been destroyed during reccent rains, and the quiet area itself has been bare.  According to national environmental quality standards for early childhood education, the space requires at least 10 soft toys, 20 books, and soft padding such as carpeting and pillows.  I will be purchasing gently used items from a local Goodwill.  General prices are as follow: $1.99-$2.99 for picture Books, $2.99-3.99 for soft toys, $5.99 for throw pillows, carpeting varies.  Any remaining funds will be used for extra materials to allow for rotation.