Playful learning in every community: Robin Randall becomes first architect and Chicago-area member of nonprofit Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network’s Board of Directors
Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network (PLLAN) operates on the research-supported framework that children learn best through play. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to “create playful learning infrastructure and activities in the everyday spaces where children and families gather.”
PLLAN has appointed Robin Randall, director of learning at Legat Architects, to its board of directors. She joins other research-driven board members including education authorities, nonprofit strategists, community leaders, and children’s museum executive directors.
According to PLLAN Executive Director Sarah Lytle, the appointment comes as part of an initiative to expand the board to better reflect the industries and communities the organization serves.
“Robin is a distinguished architect with a history of designing for educational spaces, including Playful Learning Landscapes,” said Lytle. “She brings an incredible depth of knowledge about designing for children and working with communities, and these are integral to the playful learning process.”
PLLAN, founded by psychologist and Temple University professor Kathy Hirsh-Pasek and her collaborators, has been responsible for transforming spaces ranging from bus stops and sidewalks to supermarket aisles and parks into hubs of playful learning.
“Our long-term goal is for every child and family in the U.S. to have access to playful learning opportunities in their community,” said Lytle.
Randall joins the board as not only its first architect but also its first Chicago-region member. She will focus on expanding PLLAN’s reach in underserved Midwestern communities, identifying project opportunities, and connecting with funding partners. Moreover, Randall will help the organization intensify its partnerships with architects to integrate playing learning into the design process.
Randall, an American Institute of Architects Fellow and a former professor in Judson University’s graduate architecture program, has highlighted the benefits of outdoor play in many design industry publications and conferences throughout her nearly 40-year career. She has also led community planning and programming for projects with influential outdoor play areas. Examples include Jefferson Early Childhood Center and CCSD59 Early Learning Center.
Lytle and Randall have co-presented on outdoor learning at industry conferences, and Lytle participated in Legat’s 2021 Think Tank session on reinvesting in educational infrastructure. Additionally, Legat partnered with PLLAN for Metropolitan Family Services’ Chicago playful learning installations.
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