New Perspectives: Freedom & Structure in Informal Learning Programs with the Early Childhood Peer Group

Register: Zoom (opens January 15)

Event Capacity: 50

Cost: Free

Join NYCMER’s Early Childhood Peer Group for a conversation facilitated by Dejá N. Santiago, Director of Education at Children’s Arts & Science Workshops, Inc. on the tension between freedom and structure in informal learning programs. We’ll explore ideas from the article “Rethinking Children’s Museum Learning and Experiences: New Perspectives and Challenges” alongside a case study of Club Fridays at the Bronx River Community Center, a program designed to empower children as co-creators of their own learning. 

Please read in advance:
“Rethinking Children’s Museum Learning and Experiences: New Perspectives and Challenges”
“From Art to Action: Case Studies of Art-Science in Creative Practices” (optional)

Together, we’ll consider how competing demands—from funder expectations to community needs—shape program design, and how leaning into agency and imagination can transform engagement. Come ready to reimagine our roles and consider new possibilities for reciprocal, experimental, and joyful learning spaces for children, families and staff.

Join the Early Childhood Peer Group to exchange ideas about audience development, program evaluation, pedagogy, professional development, programs for early childhood, family audiences, and more.