“A project is defined here as an in-depth investigation of a real world topic that is worthy of children’s attention and effort. The study may be carried out by a class or by small groups of children. Projects can be undertaken with children of any age. They do not usually constitute the whole educational program. Younger children will play and explore as well as engage in projects. Older children’s project work will complement the systematic instruction in their program.

The Project Approach refers to a set of teaching strategies which enable teachers to guide children through in-depth studies of real world topics. Projects are described as having a complex but flexible structural framework with features that characterize the teaching-learning interaction. When teachers implement the Project Approach successfully, children can be highly motivated, feel actively involved in their own learning, and produce work of a high quality.”

New work by artist Christopher David Ryan @ Rare Device in San Fransisco.

Get inspired, explore the work of David Smith @ ATELIER.IE

“The Urban Forest Project is a series of unprecedented outdoor banner exhibitions taking root in cities around the world. In each location, artists, designers, students and the general public will employ the idea or form of the tree to make a powerful visual statement on banners that will be displayed throughout the community.

The tree is a metaphor for sustainability and, in that spirit, the banners at the close of each exhibition will be recycled into totebags and auctioned off to raise money for a local non-profit organization. Each local project will also incorporate or support an environmental call to action such as tree planting initiatives. The program can easily be adapted to address a number of green and creative initiatives in a variety of ways to shape a project that is unique and expressive of the local community.”

via visualculture

If you have always imagined having your own design on the fabric you use for your next project, check out Spoonflower.com. They will take your design and print it on quality, quilting-weight, 100% cotton fabric.

“You do need to be somewhat computer-literate, but if you need help preparing your graphics files, explore FAQ, and/or watch a video tutorial explaining things in detail.

It is a little pricey at $18/yard, but it’s not outrageous, and hey it’s custom, plus there is no minimum order so you can order as much or as little as you like.”

via talkcraftytome

“The Children & Nature Network (C&NN) was created to encourage and support the people and organizations working to reconnect children with nature. C&NN provides access to the latest news and research in the field and a peer-to-peer network of researchers and individuals, educators and organizations dedicated to children’s health and well-being.”

Self-taught photographer Carles Roig worked closely with 35 students (20 girls and 15 boys) and 6 teachers in a Barcelona school, for over eight years. The concept: ‘Construction of Identity’. Through photography and art, Carles along with the children, documented their journey – making it available to us via this website.

Thanks for being in touch Carles – this is a truly inspiring project.

Local = Delicious.

At the Market this Month:

Vegetables – salad greens, green onions, radishes, shallots, spinach, sprouts, sunchokes, tomatoes
Fruit – apples, frozen blueberries, rhubarb, fresh strawberries, raspberries
Meat & Dairy – goat and cow’s milk cheese, yogurt, eggs, beef, chicken, lamb, pork, raw dog food
Seafood – cod, sablefish, shrimp, salmon, tuna
Herbs – bay leaves, chervil, rosemary, sage, savory (winter), thyme

If you are in the Vancouver area, please check out eatlocal.org to find a farmer’s market nearest you.