Education stands as the cornerstone of social mobility, yet access to quality learning experiences remains unequal, especially for children from marginalized communities. Disparities persist along racial, ethnic, and economic lines, hindering many from reaching their full potential. At Watchdog, we believe in the power of education to transform lives, which is why we’re thrilled to lead the effort, in partnership with Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network (PLLAN), for the Live and Learn initiative.
Transforming Spaces, Transforming Lives
Live and Learn seeks to revolutionize affordable housing developments by infusing them with playful learning opportunities. Live and Learn has started with two pilot sites in Philadelphia: Susquehanna Square and the Sharswood Neighborhood. Through collaborative efforts with community residents, we’re turning indoor and outdoor areas into engaging playful learning environments. These spaces are designed to ignite curiosity, foster skill-building, and promote social-emotional growth.
In Susquehanna Square, we’re working closely with the developer, Community Ventures, designer, KSS, and community partner, Tree House Books to incorporate playful learning into two existing multi-family affordable housing properties. From shared backyard spaces to interior hallways, every corner will become a canvas for learning. Similarly, in the Sharswood Neighborhood, in partnership with developer, Pennrose, designer, WRT, and community partners Lower North Philadelphia Community Development Corporation, Brewerytown Sharswood Community Civic Association and Brewerytown Sharswood Neighborhood Coalition, we’re integrating playful learning into a new affordable housing development by crafting a playful learning path that winds through the community, from Ridge and Master to Vaux Community Building.
Community-Led Innovation
Central to our approach is community involvement. We’re not just building spaces; we’re co-creating them with the people who will use them every day. Through inclusive engagement processes, residents are shaping the design of these installations, ensuring they reflect their values and cultures. This grassroots approach not only fosters ownership but also strengthens social cohesion within the community.
Celebrating Progress Together
Funding for Live and Learn is through a grant awarded to Watchdog by the William Penn Foundation. While we celebrate the awarding of this grant, we remain committed and mindful of the trust placed in us by the William Penn Foundation, our partners, project supporters and our communities.
Looking Ahead
As we look towards the future, we’re excited to align with global initiatives such as the newly established International Day of Play on June 11. It’s a testament to the universal importance of playful learning in nurturing young minds worldwide. On this day, we aim to unveil the final designs for the playful learning installations at our pilot sites, marking a milestone in our quest for educational equity.
Live and Learn represents more than just a project; it’s a movement towards a future where every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background. Together, we’re building brighter futures, one playful learning space at a time. To learn more about this journey of discovery, growth, and community empowerment visit the Live and Learn website.
