Where plazas and sidewalks come alive
Play Friendly Communities
Play Friendly Communities in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil brought playful learning to public spaces in neighborhoods where children and families gather every day. Through co-design with local communities, sidewalks, plazas, and gathering areas were transformed into interactive landscapes featuring playful learning panels, prompts, and games. These installations encouraged children and caregivers to read, play, and imagine together, turning ordinary spaces into opportunities for creativity, communication, and connection. By reflecting the voices and culture of each neighborhood, Play Friendly Communities demonstrated how equitable access to playful learning can be embedded in the urban fabric and strengthen community identity.
The Learning Goals
Play Friendly Communities in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo transformed public space with installations that encouraged families to learn and play together. The Giant Ruler game supported communication and critical thinking as children measured, compared, and discussed lengths with caregivers. The Bean Bag Toss game fostered creative innovation and confidence as children experimented with aim, distance, and strategy, turning simple play into opportunities for problem-solving. Together, these installations highlighted how everyday spaces can spark joyful learning through open-ended, repeatable play.
The Team
Play Friendly Communities in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo was created through a collaboration between Playful Learning Landscapes and Together for Play, working alongside local partners in Brazil.
Supporters
Play Friendly Communities in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo was supported through Together for Play, a Purpose-led initiative backed by the LEGO Foundation. Their support helped bring playful learning installations to public spaces where families gather.
