Musing over my days on the elementary school playground conjures up images of rusty monkey bars that left my hands with gaping blisters, a metallic slide that baked in the Florida sun all day and burned my legs as I slid down, and (of course) the time I fell while trying to stand on the parallel bars and got the wind knocked out of me.
The always clever folks at MOSI have brought an interactive experience to Tampa that will avoid all of the aforementioned playground perils, while totally keeping intact the fun and exciting playground experience.
The innovative Imagination Playground injects creativity, socialization and learning into playtime. The play space, which opened on Oct. 15 and is located in MOSI’s children’s science center (Kids in Charge!), allows the children to be the creators of their own playthings. It is a space for limitless, playful self-expression.
Using durable foam materials in the shape of cogs, cylinders, bricks, curves and cubes that are able to intricately connect, children can construct whatever their imaginations desire, be it animals, robots, boats or houses. It’s a hands-on experience that encourages creativity, interaction and experimentation. The non-toxic foam pieces (designed by architect David Rockwell) have a density that will allow creations to hold up, but are light enough for the mini engineers to handle with ease.
Facilitating intellectual and social development, Imagination Playground is unique in the sense that it is completely child directed. It allows kids to create their own fun, as individuals or in groups.
MOSI’s education staff will be on hand at the Imagination Playground to ensure the visitor’s safety. The Imagination Playground will be included in the cost of general admission, and is free for MOSI members.
