What we do
Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network works hand-in-hand with community groups and local organizations to create playful learning environments and programming that address articulated community needs. Where playful and informal learning activities already occur, we work with established partners to increase and measure the impact of their programs. Here are some of the ways PLLAN can work with your organization.
Coaching & Design Review
PLLAN’s early childhood experts work with designers, architects, landscape architects, and planners to bring playful learning to public spaces. From the inception of a new idea or as a key component of a site’s renovation, PLLAN will help incorporate playful learning into the design. While working with our team, designers learn about the importance of guided play and its contribution to developing the 6 Cs in order to prioritize playful learning goals into their plans. This introduction is then accompanied by assistance throughout implementation to ensure that the learning goals of an installation are met.
Webinars & Trainings
PLLAN Webinars and Training modules range from an introduction to the evidence behind the importance of playful learning to deeper dives into the how to’s of creating a Playful Learning Landscape. Some topics that we have covered in the past include the principles of play; the 6 Cs, a suite of skills for 21st century success; and community co-design. Training modules can be tailored to the specific needs of your organization.
Consulting
PLLAN continues to seek and foster new partnerships with local, regional, and national organizations who support children and families, and seek to provide skill building opportunities for children and communities in informal environments. In these partnerships, community groups work with PLLAN to define the needs of their groups and design ways for children to build the skills that address those needs. The success of previous installations and activities bolster the capacity of these community organizations to bring joyful and meaningful learning to children.
Evaluation
PLLAN’s research team develops evaluation plans for projects based on the learning goals targeted by the community and the priorities of our partner organizations. Most data collection has been observational with custom tools created for the demands of each installation. These tools target specific behaviors that may promote language between caregivers and children and relate to content areas such as language, literacy, and mathematics. In some instances, PLLAN has trained community members to collect data in their own community.
Working with PLLAN…
Would you like to add Playful Learning Landscapes to your project? Submit the form below and our team will be in touch!
Join us!
Playful Learning Landscapes can become a member of your team. Submit the form below or contact admin@playfullearninglandscapes.fun to find out more!
Interested in supporting our work but not sure how? Consider contributing to our many initiatives. Thank you!
Checks payable to Ultimate Block Party, Inc. can be sent to:
Ultimate Block Party, Inc. C/O: Temple Infant & Child Lab 580 Meetinghouse Rd. Ambler, PA 19002