We start here with each other, where we talk to you about what your options are with WhatBox.
WhatBox is a small company helping to create BIG fun.
WhatBox provides, facilitates and removes pop-up adventure playgrounds for children and their families that contain loose parts with real things.
Events last anywhere from half a day to a full month.
Ideally, one of your allies has a space (!), but if not, it helps to find a garage, barn, warehouse, or covered trailer where you can start gathering tools and materials. Most materials will be used, and many tools too, but old rusty hammers and saws aren't effective (and that's not the type of healthy risk we value), so be sure to collect and supply a wide collection of quality tools.
We can come and visit and help you find the right place
For example... https://www.bolius.dk/den-perfekte-vaerktoejskasse-for-begyndere-1270
Test your materials, tools and space by holding a launch event. This can often accompany a larger event such as a town fair or carnival, or perhaps a local school or museum will welcome you to stage the pop-up playground in a side yard, car park or park. The space does not have to be large, but the material must be organized well enough so that items can be efficiently found, used and returned. Invite guests to take home whatever they make or build, big or small, and enjoy all the playful problem-solving, storytelling and meaning-making that will happen on the playground
Think of ....
- How do we physically engage in children's play in the living room, on the playground and in nature? Differences and similarities?
- In which situations are we, for example, participating, observing or controlling?
- How can we get more freedom and flexibility into everyday life, so that we have better opportunities for immersive play?
- What opportunities are there in the local area where we can go on discoveries and 'adventures' together with the children?
- What opportunities do we have for risky play in our institution and in the local area?
Your thoughts here are much more important than your answers
Of course, with permissions, you can share photos, videos and text (quotes too) about the event, including everyone who volunteered all day long, or someone who just stopped by briefly to smile and nod (all smiles to WhatBox!). The stories from the children themselves are the best, as well as the parents who tag along. But try to encourage children to be there themselves on the playground or have lots of chances to try things on their own (fight your own urge to help too much). Parallel play with parents can be great, but also try to make sure parents take a break from helping too much (make sure you have some comfortable seating for adults, maybe some coffee and soda).