Learn about how to align the physical development of infants with the physical space. Go to page 11 in the journal.
"Emotion is the foundation of learning and must be the cornerstone of design for Early Childhood environments."
BOOKS
ARTICLES & INSIGHTS
The garden plot--be it large or small--is the first step toward connecting children to the natural world. Yet, wonderful play opportunities are often missed because of the adult's notion about what a garden should be: neat, organized, weed-free, and a place where children merely "plant and pick". Imagine what would happen if we shifted our thinking from the traditional context of growing and harvesting food and flowers to a much richer context: an inspiring plot of land for children's play. Play doesn't stop when children enter the garden! This article introduces eight different types of garden players, how to engage their innate play urges, and how to create a Play Garden.
When Marcia Durazo signed up for a free $5,000 classroom makeover from the New Mexico Child Care and Education Association (NMCCEA), she wasn’t expecting to win. All Durazo knew was […]
Design Collaborations
by Sandra Duncan
Inspiring Spaces
Step into a world of thoughtfully designed environments, where every corner invites play, discovery, and belonging. This is the work of shaping childhood—one space at a time.
My Furniture collection is going to be incorporated into Farmington University's new child education program. A quick excerpt from the full article is below, make sure to check out the […]
[Excerpt from New Book, "The Unspoken Language of Early Childhood Environments" (Tentative Title) , by Sandra Duncan, Christine Burkholder, and Lauren Magee] Young children are losing their childhoods in today’s […]
As many of you know, I have many wonderful opportunities to design and consult on many projects around the world. Recently I was able to play a small part in […]
A conversation with Sandra Duncan, Rae Pica and Heidi Veal discussing how standardized classrooms are boring and uninspiring. Join us as they share ways to bring novelty into your classroom. […]
Events & Appearances
Where learning spaces come to life
Dr. Sandra Duncan speaks around the world to early childhood professionals, designers, educators, and leaders—sharing inspiration and practical tools for creating environments where children and adults thrive. Whether she’s keynoting a national conference, leading a hands-on workshop, or collaborating with programs on the ground, Sandra brings deep expertise, real-world insights, and a contagious passion for spaces that nurture wonder.
The Source for Learning Online Podcast
Topic Designing Early Learning Environments; Lesson from Hummingbirds
13
November
2025
St. Philip's Episcopal School- Coral Gables, Florida
St. Philip's Episcopal School Early Childhood Campus Project
17
November
2025
NAEYC- Orlando, Florida
NAEYC- Orlando, Florida Presentation on 19th- Designing Infant Rooms that Encourage Autonomy, Exploration and Discovery Presentation on the 20th- Rethinking Early Childhood Environments
19
November
2025
FURNITURE COLLECTION
Designing Environments That Nurture Wonder
Explore Dr. Sandra Duncan’s thoughtfully crafted furniture collection, where nature-inspired design meets the developmental needs of young learners. Each piece is intentionally created to foster connection, curiosity, and a deep sense of belonging in early childhood spaces.
Bring Sandra to Your Next Event
From keynote stages to cozy classrooms, Sandra brings joyful energy and nature-inspired insight to every event. Her live trainings and talks help educators reimagine learning spaces with beauty, purpose, and heart.
Let’s grow something wonderful together.
Let’s grow something wonderful together.