Ever find yourself in the middle of a task – like making dinner or balancing a budget – and think, “Why didn’t school teach me this?” That’s exactly what Family and Consumer Science, or FACS, is all about.
Why Is Family and Consumer Sciences Important?
Family and Consumer Sciences, once called “home ec,” has become a subject that equips students with practical tools they’ll use throughout their lives. From cooking and nutrition to financial literacy and child development, FACS helps young people learn skills that help them live independently and successfully as adults. Plus, FACS introduces students to potential careers in hospitality, nutrition and education, giving them a taste of what they could pursue after graduation.
Designing a Family and Consumer Sciences Classroom
Here are some tips for designing a Family and Consumer Sciences classroom that’s practical, engaging and safe for hands-on learning:
1. Prioritize Safety and Accessibility
Like designing any classroom, it’s important to keep safety top-of-mind. Factors like clear sight lines and unobstructed walkways make it easy for students to move between stations and for teachers to supervise effectively. ADA-compliant layouts, with wide aisles and reachable workstations, make the classroom welcoming and accessible for all students.
2. Choose Adaptable, Multi-Functional Furniture
Since FACS covers a range of topics, having adaptable furniture is key. Consider these basics when setting up your space:
- Countertops: When it comes to FACS classrooms, countertops need to handle a wide range of activities. For example, our high-pressure laminate is a great choice for general classroom tasks, health textiles, apparel and interior design, and independent life skills. If food preparation and cooking are part of your curriculum, we also offer a butcher block top that’s food-grade upon request or culinary tables with stainless steel tops.
- Kitchen Workstations: Fixed casework and cabinets with sinks, ovens and stovetops offer a realistic setting for FACS students to practice their cooking skills. For added flexibility, mobile kitchen workstations, like our Access Mobile Worktop Cabinet, are a great option. They’re perfect for all kinds of FACS activities, from cooking demos to rearranging the classroom for group projects.
- Sinks: Whether for food prep, cleaning or other hands-on activities, sinks are a must-have in FACS classrooms. They can be installed into casework by an experienced professional for a clean, built-in look. If you need more flexibility, hot water mobile sinks are also available, offering a portable solution for different classroom setups.
- Sewing Stations with Storage: Dedicated sewing tables with built-in storage help keep supplies organized, especially when projects take multiple days to complete.
- Adjustable Tables: These tables accommodate various tasks and comfort levels, ensuring students can work comfortably regardless of the classroom activity.
- Storage: FACS classrooms have a lot of materials, from cooking equipment to textiles and sewing supplies. Use cabinets, shelves and mobile carts to keep everything organized and accessible.
Setting Students Up For Life Success
Designing a Family and Consumer Sciences classroom should be as practical and hands-on as the skills students are learning. From durable casework and sewing workstations to flexible tables and mobile storage, we offer a variety of solutions for FACS classrooms. Reach out today and let us help you create a space that prepares students for life!