STREET SAVVY

Abstract

In the last few decades, changes in the society have affected childhood experiences. For our parents, outdoor playing was a regular practice. For today's kids however, it is an endangered activity that is declining over the course of time. Outdoor play is fundamental for child growth and development. With this concept diminishing, today's kids resultantly lack spatial skills and understanding of an urban environment, ultimately making them less street smart. While gadgets are an easy distraction for kids and an easy way out for parents, (who are afraid of stranger-danger) the lack of exposure and interaction with the surroundings has serious consequences. Moreover, this lack of interaction is poorly compensated by gadgets that limit the creative and cognitive thinking to screens and involves zero physical activity. For people who will eventually shape the future, this project revolves around understanding the reasons for the shift from outdoor play to indoor play and involves creating an edutainment that will bring children back to playgrounds, make them more socially aware, help them explore and become familiar with their urban surroundings.