Since the pandemic-driven shutdown of school buildings in the spring of 2020, schools and school systems around the globe have been challenged to define safe environments for students to return to on-site learning.  While strategies focused on physical space, furniture arrangements, fresh air, and sanitizing, we noticed very few strategies focus on maintaining – if not improving – high quality teaching and learning. Fewer still are ideas and strategies that address children’s curiosity, confusion, or even fear associated with what they are being asked to do and not do.

We believe that every aspect of a physical environment sends a message, whether overt or implied. While subconscious messages may be more challenging to control, environments rely on signage to direct and inform the actions of occupants.  Enter. Exit. One Way. Do Not Enter. No Talking. Room 222.  Recycle.  Pay Here.  Wait to be Seated.  Pull.  Push.  Danger.

We believe that even messages send messages, and that those intended for children must be carefully curated as critical elements of safe, happy, engaging environments.

The current pandemic has driven knee-jerk signage solutions for a multitude of pandemic dos and don’ts.  In fact, some of the ideas being implemented in schools, including COVID-19 related signage, may increase fear and anxiety in children.  While the pandemic situation is complex, one thing we do know is that Fear and Learning Don’t Mix…  But how can we keep children safe in school environments while also improving teaching and learning?  We believe that the answer to this question is inherently multi-faceted, however we believe that displaying the right messages designed for young learners is a powerful, easy, and cost-effective part of the solution.

Our COVID-19 signage for educational environments is developed with BOTH SAFETY AND LEARNING in mind.  We strive to tap a child’s curiosity, enabling them to develop an understanding of WHY and HOW their own actions can help keep the school community safe.

What happens to germs when I wash my hands?  Why should I wear a mask?  How far is six feet anyway?

For younger learners, our wall posters are designed to work in concert with floor decals as a fun way to help students learn social distancing.  Learning about animals, scale, distance, direction, footprints, color, contrast, conservation, and more is also possible with these child-friendly signs.

For older learners, our message is the same, but with more sophisticated graphics and an added degree of technical learning.  What is the difference between 6 feet and 2 meters?  How does soap work? How far do germs travel through the air?  What does a mask do?

Our signage addresses key messages promoted the CDC, yet they are designed to pique and satisfy a learner’s curiosity so that the messages are grounded and can be retained.

Why have signage that only does one thing?

Learn. Be Safe.

Our COVID-19 signage is yet another level of detail in our quest to Unite Education and Architecture.  Once the pandemic is controlled and the virus has subsided, we believe the lessons learned will be long-lasting and applicable to whatever the future holds for our young learners.  Help ensure your students are safe, prepared, inspired.  Join Us.