Mamas, our dear friend J was in NY for a long weekend. So of course we drove up. Really, we don't need much of an excuse to visit. And our very favorite thing to do with the kiddos? Visit MOMA. Not only do they have cool activities for kids just walking around the museum, but they have an interactive space (which changes a few times a year). Last trip, it was a Materials Lab, which was AWESOME. They had a myriad of materials out for building chairs (which was surprisingly fun) and a whole arsenal of toys and books for playing. We were there for almost two hours. It's a great respite from a day of walking around.
This time, MOMA had installed a Reggio Emelia mecca. I find the Reggio Emelia preschool philosophy so inspiring. A hallmark of Reggio Emelia is playing with various forms of light, and this exhibit didn't disappoint. They had a video camera trained on a set of playthings, projected onto the wall (see pic above). Kids were so into this setup, that Raines had to wait for a while before he got a turn. The imaginative play was intense. So fun to see.
They also had a projector set up, showing an underwater scene. Cool. But then, being Reggio, they added some reflecting elements - a disco ball, various mirrors, and blocks, a waved surface. R (and Pax, actually) were both totally enchanted, experimenting with the various ways they could mess with the projection.
Mom, look! It shows up over there!
Also, the whole family was delighted to discover that part of this MOMA exhibit includes the ENTIRE LINE of Learning Materials Workshop's blocks.
Remember the Coloraturo block review we did a while back? Yeah - we're big fans. HUGE.
I'm thrilled for Learning Materials Workshop. Such nice people, such an inspiring product. Love to see them in partnership with MOMA.
I always feel so....energized when I encounter such intentional, inspiring play ideas. Expect me to go nuts on Pinterest soon.
This weekend I think we're going to check out the Fall Festival at the Morris Arboretum. A little pumpkin painting, apple eating, and scarecrow viewing. Yup. It is Fall.
What's inspired you lately?
xo,
S
ps. Also, the MOMA gift shop. OMG. Pax was obsessed with this umbrella (we seriously had to tear it from his death grip, kicking and screaming) and I might buy Raines a fish. Strictly for this fish hotel. You see? Totally irresistible.
