Here are some of the leading trends in urban spaces for children
Bulgaria is one of the countries where children spend the most time outside and often play in playgrounds. Old or new, in good or bad condition, often uniform typical facilities, most of them are bustling with life, and their number greatly exceeds that of other European countries.
Worldwide, spaces for children are extremely varied , but they are all safe and enjoyable spaces designed to entertain and socialise, stimulating children's imagination, originality, creativity and sense of beauty.
Recently, interesting, original and beautiful spaces for children have also been found in our country. Several conceptual directions are emerging in the improvement of old playgrounds and the creation of new ones.
Here are some of the leading trends.
PAINTED FAIRY TALES
Fairytale art interventions on a large scale are extremely popular and impactful. Painted school facades or walls near playgrounds are increasingly common. Large-scale artworks create a fabulous backdrop for play and often convey a symbolic philosophical or moral message to children. These art interventions demonstrate vividly the power of art to transform, ennoble and educate.
| Drawing on the façade of a school hall drawing:140ideas for Urban Creatures, photo:140ideas |
| Drawing on a traffic light near a playground/ drawing:140ideas for Transformers Association, photo:140ideas |
FLYING CLASSROOMS
An interesting trend around the world, and in this country, is the creation of alternative public spaces for formal and informal learning. These are unconventional spaces where children play, learn, and experiment at the same time. Often they are connected with improvised stages and children's art galleries. An important conceptual element is the children's opportunity to directly present to the world their possibilities and skills, their dreams.
| DREAMS FACULTY of the Health and Social Development Foundation / project |
| OUT-OF-SCHOOL" in the yard of St. The project is based on the work of. "St. Cyril and Methodius", St. Cyril and Methodius, Sofia. |
THE MAGIC HOUSES
It is becoming more and more common to see various improvised children's houses in playgrounds. Between reality and fairy tales, these facilities offer children extraordinary magical worlds. A combination of interesting materials, whimsical shapes and interactive properties create unique environments and opportunities for individual interaction and experience.
The Wall of Fairy Tales in the Sea Garden, Burgas /
Project
ASPHALT GAMES
Playgrounds that look like enlarged children's games are current and fun. colourful elements and drawings stimulate the imagination and create the feeling that "games" are all around us. playing and interpreting different games provide children with a "field" for outdoor expression and at the same time enrich different elements of the urban infrastructure.
A courtyard at the St. Constantine" /
Project and photo
SPATIAL ADVENTURES
Different types of climbing, climbing and jumping facilities are becoming increasingly popular. Different alternatives to the classic climbing frames are appearing. Original and interesting constructions develop children's endurance and physical fitness. These facilities stimulate the spirit of adventure and create the feeling of overcoming obstacles and conquering peaks.
| Beach Serdika Center Sofia/ Project and photo GRID-AI |
| Rope bridge in the sea garden in Burgas/ Photo |
THE SECRET GARDENS
Some of the most beloved and exciting children's spaces are those that offer children a touch of nature. Colourful gardens with flowers and herbs are becoming a must-have in the courtyards of kindergartens and schools. These beautiful spaces give children the opportunity to experiment with cultivating plants while teaching children engagement, responsibility and caring.
| Project "Urban Farm" by Gergana Tileva, Magdalena Chavdarova and Katerina Moneva at the Creative Workshop "Communarchy" of Transformers Association/ photo |
| Organic garden at Elitsa kindergarten, Sliven / photo : Elitsa kindergarten |
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First part of the article you can read on this link:
Urban spaces for children - places for play and informal learning