Join our workshop exploring the transformative potential of children's empowerment in shaping school environments. This session will provide insights why participatory practices in pre-schools and schools are essential and how they differ from urban placemaking. Participants will delve into practical methodologies that engage young children and learn how to harness children's ideas to enhance school spaces. Architects, educators and psychologists will present an overview of the theoretical framework behind school-based placemaking, highlighting unique challenges and opportunities it presents. Attendees will learn the crucial conditions necessary for participation and understand why this approach benefits the entire school community. Through interactive format, we will demonstrate techniques for interpreting children's wishes and assessing their involvement in decision-making processes. Participants will gain practical tools for evaluating the school environment to ensure it supports children's self-expression and active participation. The workshop will cover methods for co-creating tangible, contextually relevant projects with students, fostering a strong sense of school identity and community. We will share real-world examples and outcomes, illustrating how these practices transform physical spaces and rejuvenate relationships within the school, promoting collaborative and project-based learning. This session is designed for professionals seeking to implement innovative strategies that catalyze positive change in educational environments.
