well-appointed park
A well-appointed park — with mature shade trees, native vegetation, and permeable materials that allow surfaces to absorb stormwater — can cool down the surrounding neighborhood by up to six degrees. Read more
important role of recess
A large and growing body of evidence supports the important role of recess, yet evidence also suggests that recess is not always implemented in ways that fulfill its promise. Read more
Maria Montessori
Dr. Maria Montessori was one of the most influential pioneers in education for children in the 20th century, and her methods have continued to be utilized in Montessori schools around the world. Her discoveries in working with children led to teaching methods that allow for child-directed learning with the teacher facilitating the environment to aid in the child's interests with the message to "follow the child."
lunch debt
As the new school year gets underway, without free school meals for all, many fear lunch debt will return with a vengeance. Read more
more play and less therapy
The rise in anxiety and depression among school-aged children long predates COVID and even predates the popular use of smartphones. Peter Gray suggests the reasons and suggests more play and less therapy. Read more
sport of rock climbing
Children and youth make up one of the fastest-growing segments in the sport of rock climbing. Kids love it! Here are tips for introducing kids to rock climbing. Read more
17 categories of play
The TOTY Awards recognize the top toys, games, and licenses from the past two years across 17 categories of play in time for the upcoming holiday shopping season. Read more
Play Captains
This summer 42 teens became Play Captains and ran neighborhood play spaces around Philly, engaging younger children while learning to be leaders themselves. Read more
Diggerland U.S.A.
A construction-themed amusement park answers the question, “Can you dig it?” At Diggerland U.S.A., children can experience the pleasures of heavy equipment firsthand. (Adults like it, too.) Read more
Lincoln Logs
The popularity of children's construction toys grew from simple wooden blocks to the development of Lincoln Logs in the early 1900s. Lincoln Logs are considered a classic American toy and were honored by being inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 1999 for their enduring popularity.
