What if classrooms were seen not as static places, but as living, breathing organisms that grow and adapt with children? In this episode, guest Alona Yildirim shares her 25 years of experience as an early childhood educator, leader, and co-founder of Documentation Studio Türkiye. Together, we explore how learning environments act as co-teachers—shaping curiosity, inspiring creativity, and making learning visible for both children and educators.

To Learn more and/or connect with Alona:

documentationstudioturkiye.org

IG:  @little.people.learn 

LinkedIn:  Alona Yildirim

Resources:

The Third Teacher: 79 ways you can use design to transform teaching and learning

Reggio Children Children, spaces, relations

Deb Curtis Designs for Living and learning

Ingrid Crowther Creating Effective Learning Environments 

Sandra Duncan Inspiring Spaces for Young children,  Rethinking the Classroom Landscape Through A child’s Eyes 

The Space: A guide for educators

The Space: A guide for leaders

Yi Fu Tuan Spaces and Places: The Perspective of Experience

Jim Freeman Caring Spaces, Learning Places

Jure Kotnik Designing Spaces for Early Childhood Development: Sparking Learning & Creativity

Architect Faith Swickard Spatial Conditions of Emotion