l’d always been acutely sensitive to my surroundings – and aware that I could make them rather than just observe them.
– Anouska Hempel

Tiffani Rogers, writing in an article on the Community Playthings website, writes:

In many classrooms, overstimulation can be one of the biggest barriers to emotional regulation. Too many colors and visual clutter can make it difficult for children to focus, increasing anxiety or impulsivity.

Teachers often feel pressure to make their rooms look ‘busy’ or ‘educational,’ believing that a highly decorated space shows engagement and effort. However, for young children still developing sensory processing and attention skills, too much visual information can have the opposite effect.

An effective classroom design balances stimulation and serenity. Instead of covering every wall with displays, teachers can use purposeful, simplified visuals that reinforce learning goals. For example:

• Display children’s artwork at eye level rather than crowding bulletin boards from floor to ceiling
• Use neutral or soft background colors on walls so materials, student work, and family photos can stand out meaningfully
• Keep materials organized in labeled baskets or bins to support predictability and reduce cognitive load

When children know where things belong and what to expect in their surroundings, they experience two key ingredients for self-regulation: a sense of control and safety.