Matching changes in preschool environments to desired changes in child behavior

Abstract

Preschool environments differentially affect the behavior and development of handicapped youngsters. A specific quality or aspect of the environment can in part determine how children behave in that setting. It is therefore important that early childhood special educators tailor environmental provisions to match desired autcomes. This article describes five dimensions of children's behavior likely to be affected by environments: engagement, independence, aggression, social interaction, and happiness. Research and theory documenting the relationship between environments and behavior are reviewed and guidelines for matching changes in preschool environments to changes in child behavior are provided.