If you're searching for ways to keep your creative kiddos engaged, take a trip to Chelsea.
The neighborhood just welcomed The GIANT Room, an innovation space for tiny New Yorkers with big dreams. Now operating at 550 W 28th St, the venue set up roots just in time for the colder months (when parents desperately need recs for indoor activities for kids).
"It’s kids’ ideas that are GIANT," says Dr. Azi Jamalian, Founder and CEO of The GIANT Room. "We simply give them the space, mentorship and all sorts of tools and equipment they need to bring those ideas into reality.”
Photograph: Courtesy @yokohamayuko on Instagram
The hub is geared toward visitors ages 3–12 who are curious about STEAM studies and art classes for kids. Arguably one of the main draws to the space is the "Blank Canvas," where participants help piece together a new monthly exhibit for The GIANT Room's gallery. Currently, little Picassos and their families are tasked with creating an interactive Dream Land this November. Plus, exciting workshops, including "Storytelling, Animation and Character Design" and "Design and Fabrication," are also available. There are options to participate in after-school sessions ($50/session), open studios ($25) and day camps ($200).
“Technology is being integrated into every aspect of our lives, from the way we communicate, teach, learn, to even find partners in our lives,” says Dr. Jessica Mezei, co-founder of The GIANT Room. “We help kids and their families to get comfortable with messing around with tech tools, take them apart, put them back together in new ways, and simply use them in service of their ideas.”
Plus there are other educational opportunities for young visitors, such as a free field trip to Cooper Union's School of Engineering on Nov 23 (from 10–11am for children ages 5–10) and an opportunity to host a private event in the space, which provides access to materials like a 3D printer and programmable LEDs.
Sounds like a visit is in order! See you there.
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