ACCADEMIA DEI BAMBINI

Image from fondazioneprada.org

We’re enthralled by the Accademia dei Bambini, the Fondazione Prada’s first project just for kids. This fascinating independent structure can take on a myriad of configurations, depending on the event or activity hosted within. It was developed by neuropediatrician Giannetta Ottilia Latis and designed by architecture students from the École nationale supérieure d’architecture de Versailles. The foundation has created an “an independent structure equipped with everything it needs to conduct multidisciplinary activities, not strictly connected with art exhibitions, but also open to intergenerational dialogue and debate related to pedagogical–cultural issues to be experienced through gameplay, creativity, learning and exchange.” Artists, educators, scientists, and more are invited as “masters” to conduct inspiring, hands-on workshops in their craft for children and families. April and May 2016 workshops, entitled "Erbari Vagabondi" will be taught by landscape artist Marianna Merisi and explore painting the flora and fauna of the natural world.

The Accademia dei Bambini at the Fondazione Prada Milan (Largo Isarco 2) is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-5pm. All activities are free and open to the public.

STRAWBEES

November 5, 2015

Strawbees just made it to the top of our holiday shopping list! These super simple, but super smart, plastic connectors allow kids (and grown-ups!) to build almost anything out of ordinary drinking straws. Check out this awesome video to be truly wowed by a selection of easy-to-build creations. Dubbed the "smart toy" company, this Swedish team aims to encourage learning through play, ultimately spawning a generation of "creative thinkers and collaborative problem solvers." Their online store offers a selection of kits at different sizes, as well as an "Infinite Kit Make Machine," allowing kids to make their own Strawbees out of plastic waste - fun and sustainable! Special rates are also available for educators

DESIGNING FOR PLAY

October 20, 2015

Image from casholman.com

Image from casholman.com

Space is still available at tonight's "Designing for Play" lecture, given by Cas Holman, at the School of the Visual Arts. Holman will discuss designing products that stimulate imagination and encourage children to "develop habits of agency, independence, and self-determination." Holman is a professor at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and has spent the last decade exploring play, education, and imagination. 

Cas Holman, "Designing for Play." Tuesday, October 20, 2015. 6:30-8:30pm. Free with pre-registration. SVA Department of Design Research, Writing, and Criticism. 136 West 21st St, New York City.