A community-created playful learning space inspired by nature, storytelling, and the stars!
Northstar Park
North Star Park is a community-driven playful learning installation created with and for the East Parkside community. Developed through Drexel University’s Playful Learning by Design course, the project gave future architects and designers the opportunity to learn from residents and co-create playful learning elements rooted in the neighborhood’s identity, history, and hopes for the future.
The installation includes multiple playful learning features: Petalscape, Star-Studded Shed, Seedlings Bench, a Little Free Library and a Sidewalk Critter Path. Together, these elements invite children and caregivers to explore nature, notice patterns, tell stories, relax, and play together. The design honors East Parkside residents who have cared for and beautified the neighborhood across generations, while creating joyful opportunities for families to connect in the park.
The Learning Goals
North Star Park supports the 6Cs of playful learning: especially, collaboration, communication, and creative innovation. Across the site, children and caregivers are invited to explore nature, notice patterns, ask questions, tell stories, and play together. The Critter Path welcomes visitors to the park. Petalscape encourages observation, conversation, and connection to the flowers and plants in the park. The Star-Studded Shed builds curiosity about the sun, moon, stars, and solar energy while inviting children to think about the natural world. The Seedlings Bench creates a welcoming place for families to rest, talk, imagine, and connect with one another while reading books from the Little Free Library.
The Team
North Star Park was created through a collaboration between Playful Learning Landscapes, Drexel University, and Watchdog, with community partnership from Centennial Parkside CDC and the East Parkside Residents Association.
Supporters
Lead support was provided by the William Penn Foundation. Additional support was provided by Centennial Parkside CDC, Councilmember Jamie R. Gauthier, East Parkside Residents Association.
