KinderEarth

Issue: 

Earth, this planet which we call our home, we are not saving, because all the problems that our planet is facing today are due to the human factor and the great influence we have on the planet. Global warming, ocean pollution, fertile land pollution, gold pollution; are all in the absence of human awareness of the danger that is threatening our common home: Earth. Nowadays we are seeing more and more different organizations aiming to educate people about their role in preserving our planet, but would it be more fruitful if this awareness happened at a young age, not after have we spent half our lives damaging our planet? One option that should be universally considered is for future generations to know at an early age the importance of preserving this planetary ecosystem by respecting all the living things with which we share this planet and without which our lives would be impossible.

Solution: 

Awareness of children about the importance of living healthy in harmony with nature and all other living things should be taught to children from kindergarten where they receive most of the information that influences the creation of their character that will accompany them throughout life. Undoubtedly, the role of architecture is special in this process, where through adequate design, children will be able to learn and at the same time spend an attractive time in the kindergarten spaces. Some of the key points to focus on in designing a kindergarten are:

Open System: An open kindergarten system is much needed today, given the pace at which the world is evolving and seeing the many problems that the traditional kindergarten has, which are often affecting young people badly. In an open system, children are free to choose the activity they want to do during their time and are not forced to stay in undesirable environments. This freedom of choice affects all subsequent stages of life, rushing them to pursue their dreams and aspirations and be successful in the field they desire rather than in the directions the system prefers. So, we would have a fusion between passion and profession, where work would not be work, but it would be fun.

Natural materials: Undoubtedly the main role of Architecture in the environment is the adequate choice of building materials. By choosing sustainable, recyclable materials and in harmony with nature and the environment in which it is built, no doubt, and in addition to avoiding harmful effects in nature, we would give an example to the users of those facilities, how also with natural elements all functional requirements are met?

Relation to nature: A key element in creating future generations who would be aware of the importance of preserving nature and living things, is their connection to nature from an early age. The way to teach children about healthy eating is to involve them in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables in their garden, so in contemporary kindergartens should be designed areas for planting vegetables. Another important problem is water pollution and the destruction of many underwater habitats where many underwater creatures are in danger of extinction. Therefore, the involvement of the aquatic world in kindergartens is very necessary as children get acquainted with different aquatic creatures and create a closeness between them, thus being educated about the importance of protecting the seas and oceans from pollution as they are home to millions of creatures.

Respecting the location: This is a very important element in any project as we must first analyze the location and the impact that that object may have on it and then start with the project, so we must keep in mind to have a minimal impact on the location without damaging the greenery, visors, etc. So as much as possible to adapt to nature so that the object and nature will have a symbiosis.

In conclusion: When the time comes for the child to finish kindergarten and continue with the other stages of schooling, he will be much better prepared for the processes that await him during his life, which he will overcome without harming planet earth.