The teacher plays the role of facilitator in the classroom and creates an environment that is challenging, yet not frustrating, for individual activities as well as small and large group activities. The environment is child-initiated to create a sense of self-reliance, encourage problem solving, and enhance cooperation among the children and adults. The teacher supports the curriculum by asking open-ended questions, adding materials when appropriate, and expanding the thoughts and ideas of the children. The children interact with real concrete objects to help make connections with their own life experiences while learning and exploring new ideas and encountering new discoveries.