kodokids.com/blogs/journal/tagged/announcements/--
Like chocolate and peanut butter, some pairings are undeniably wonderful. We are so pleased to announce that Kodo and Teaching Strategies® have partnered together! Our teams have collaborated to create unique packages of high-quality materials to support high-quality instruction.
Over the years, Kodo has become the leader in innovative products in the early education field. Our truly open-ended materials offer teachers and children flexibility in the classroom.That, however, can also lead to confusion! For years, we’ve heard, “I love Kodo products, but how do I use them in our program?” Our answer, of course, is “There are endless possibilities! Use them to support your curriculum!” It’s always been important to us to help teachers connect open-ended materials with multiple learning objectives. Thus, our partnership with Teaching Strategies® came to be. By aligning our products with flexible frameworks for learning and assessment, educators are empowered to recognize the possibilities for how, why, and where children will benefit from them most.
Each of the collections is organized by learning area. If your classroom environment is arranged in centers, these materials are well suited to support your children’s daily explorations! If you use the Creative Curriculum®, all of the materials will compliment your implementation and support many of the studies. If you practice an emergent or play-based curriculum, use the materials to support children’s interests and investigations throughout the classroom.
Your program might be in need of new materials to rejuvenate classroom spaces or develop new learning centers. The nature of Kodo’s open-ended classroom tools ensures that children will use and combine them in ways that help them actively explore integrated concepts and ideas, support them to think critically and problem-solve, and may just surprise you with how creatively they invent ways to use them. When children have high quality materials that offer them choices, it’s not surprising that teachers notice a marked increase in engagement and communication. All in all, use these collections to enhance your learning areas, fuel inquiry and investigation, support children’s emerging interests, and authentically assess children’s learning and skill development.
Learn more about our curated collections here. There are four collections in each interest area, and range from a basic kit (Level I) and build up to our most robust and substantial kit (Level IV). And as always, contact us with questions! We’re always here to help!
Like chocolate and peanut butter, some pairings are undeniably wonderful. We are so pleased to announce that Kodo and Teaching Strategies® have partnered together! Our teams have collaborated to create unique packages of high-quality materials to support high-quality instruction. Over...
From The Kodo Design Studio - Kodo Playscape Platforms
When it comes to product design, Kodo is recognized worldwide as a leader in innovative thinking. Earlier this month we premiered our new Playscape Platforms to an international audience at NAEYC. The response was overwhelmingly positive and many, many educators stopped to ask us how we design and create such wonderful products. We thought everyone would like a peek into our process.
Rethinking a Classroom Staple: The Block Platform
Virtually all products begin with an idea. Sometimes during the design and prototyping process the development of one one product can inform and influence the design of another. Such was the case with Kodo’s new Playscape Platforms. While creating a new product to replace the ordinary block platform in classrooms, Grey Waletich, Kodo’s lead designer, had an “aha” moment.
What is a block platform? It is an elevated “landscape” to build on. Why are most block platforms square or rectangular? The landscape we see outside is not square or rectangular, it is organic. The tools and materials we create for students should draw inspiration from everyday life.
The stunning result of Grey’s insight is our innovative system of circular platforms and arches which support children to create their own landscapes for play with blocks, ramps, and story play accessories. Learn more about Kodo Playscapes Platforms >>
When it comes to product design, Kodo is recognized worldwide as a leader in innovative thinking. Earlier this month we premiered our new Playscape Platforms to an international audience at NAEYC. The response was overwhelmingly positive and many, many educators stopped to...
Kodo Virtual Learning Has Launched
It’s an exciting time for Kodo Kids since launching our Virtual Learning Program the beginning of March. As part of our overall vision and commitment to supporting continuous quality improvement, it became evident that we needed the ability to connect virtually. Staying true to our in-person professional development opportunities, we have incorporated play sessions, observation opportunities, and reflections! Let’s take a closer look at Kodo Kid’s Virtual Learning:
Investigation Based Teaching Practices
>At the core of our professional development opportunities are the Investigation Based Teaching Practices. This is our guide to and basis in supporting children in a play based learning environment. The following courses were launched and available as a bundle:
Learning Approaches to Foster Engineering
Adult and Child Interactions to Foster Engineering
Enhancing the Environment to Foster Engineering
How does Kodo Virtual Learning work?
After registering for any course with Kodo Kids at www.kodo.learnupon.com, you will receive an email with information specific to that course. All courses are asynchronous, in which you have the ability to login as many times as you need to complete the course work. After completing the requirements of the course, you will be emailed your certificate. Further, you can login to your dashboard to retrieve your previous course information.
How is Kodo Virtual Learning different?
There are several items that set us apart from other virtual learning opportunities:
Since it is our belief that all individuals learn through experience (including play!), courses have provocations associated with them. Some involve gathering materials to have a play experience, while others might involve providing a provocation for children and observing their play. After you are finished with the provocation, it is important to come back online to the course and post your reflection.
All of our courses have a Trainer associated with the course. The Trainer is available to provide assistance to all learners, as well as, interact within the discussion board.
Interactive courses allow for learners to not only be engaged through the course work but to also involve research-based content and video’s, where applicable. Further, interaction is available with the learner and trainer through private message boards, the discussion forum, and follow-up as needed.
What is next for Kodo Virtual Learning?
As part of the learning process, Kodo will be launching Professional Learning Communities (PLC). These Virtual PLCs will be open discussion forums for those with common interests. These interests can expand beyond just STEM! Further, discussion forums will be facilitated by a professional that will be available to answer questions, post photo and video provocations, and stimulate learning among the members.
Virtual Coaching will be available for programs that do not have access to a Kodo Trainer, or for programs that need an education opportunity specific to their needs.
Kodo Virtual Learning Video
Take a look at our Kodo Virtual Learning video on the Kodo Kids YouTube channel!
Kodo Virtual Learning Contact Information
Kodo Virtual Learning Website - https://kodo.learnupon.com
Kodo Virtual Learning Email - vl@kodokids.com
Kodo Virtual Learning Has Launched It’s an exciting time for Kodo Kids since launching our Virtual Learning Program the beginning of March. As part of our overall vision and commitment to supporting continuous quality improvement, it became evident that we...
SXSWedu: Fostering the Maker Movement in Early Childhood Education
On March 8th, Kodo founder Chris Hume presented at SXSWedu alongside National Head Start Executive Director Yasmina Vinci, Divisional Director Head Start and Early Head Start Wassy Tesfa, and Lisa Brahms, the Director of Learning and Research at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh. The distinguished panel addressed Fostering the Maker Movement in Early Childhood Education.
Says Hume, "The audience questions and participation were great, and included incredible discussion on how to facilitate the tinker mindset in both children and teachers. The insight the other panelists brought to the room was inspiring - Brahms delved into makerspaces for multiple ages, while Tesfa brought wisdom on implementing makerspaces into your program."
At Kodo, we wholeheartedly support the maker movement in education, especially early education. We look forward to being a driving force in this movement in the years to come. We encourage you to watch some of the clips from our presentation below to learn more about the future of Makerspaces in early childhood education!
The panel responds to "what does makerspace mean to you?"
Addressing Technology in the Classroom
On March 8th, Kodo founder Chris Hume presented at SXSWedu alongside National Head Start Executive Director Yasmina Vinci, Divisional Director Head Start and Early Head Start Wassy Tesfa, and Lisa Brahms, the Director of Learning and Research at the Children's Museum...
Flexnest, an SDSU and Kodo Collaboration Project, Receives National Award
Flexnest Recognized as Best in Category for "Design As Idea"
It is with pride and excitement that we announce that the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) National Conference recently gave national recognition to Flexnest, a project collaboration between South Dakota State University Alumni Vanny Cahyadi and Grey Waletich (now a Kodo employee!) and Kodo Founder Chris Hume. The Flexnest is an innovative piece of furniture that functions not only as a place for adults and children to sit, but which also doubles as a collection of loose parts and trays for storage. Flexnest was given the distinction of "Best in Category: Design as Idea". Projects in this category explore the entire spectrum of design. Submissions can either be conceptual in character and/or completed projects, furniture design, lighting, product design, stage/set design, textile design, exhibition design, etc. The judging process is blind-reviewed by nationally and internationally recognized jurors who are interior designers, architects, artists, or curators. Juror's comments on the project included: “This project was very well presented and coordinated. The idea is very intriguing, and the details of the project are simple yet sophisticated,” and “this design applies the concept of Loose Parts very effectively. The approach to which the loose parts within the design are put together in a multitude of uses enables a challenging experience and ability for children imaginations to explore. It was well executed." On behalf of the Kodo team, congrats to Grey and Chris! To view the PDF of the portfolio submission, click here.
Flexnest Recognized as Best in Category for "Design As Idea" It is with pride and excitement that we announce that the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) National Conference recently gave national recognition to Flexnest, a project collaboration between South Dakota...
Kodo's TV Debut on Treehouse Masters
Kodo's Wind Tunnel Appears on Episode "Nature's Super HQ"
If you were watching Animal Planet last Friday night, you may have noticed an exciting surprise - Kodo's Wind Tunnel made its TV debut on Treehouse Masters!
The episode was titled "Nature's Super HQ" and told the story of For Mar Nature Preserve in Flint, Michigan. The treehouse serves as a classroom in the sky for visitors of all ages, and provides an educational and entertaining resource for a community still reeling from the water crisis that began in 2014. To date, the treehouse has already received over 28,000 visitors and hosts educational programs, field trips, schools, scout groups, the local community, and more.
The Wind Tunnel Appears on Treehouse Masters
During the episode, we follow Pete Nelson as he walks us through the design process and construction of the treehouse. Then, towards the end, Pete brings in his interior designer to turn the empty treehouse into an exciting classroom space. At one point, she enters the treehouse carrying the Wind Tunnel, or, as she lovingly put it, the "little wind turbine thing", explaining to viewers how children will use it to learn about aerodynamics. The Wind Tunnel finds its home in a corner of the treehouse where it's positioned to shoot Play Silks and other fun materials through a 'Y' shaped trunk of tree that grows through the middle of the room.
Watch Again on Animal Planet
If you missed the show, you can catch reruns on Animal Planet! The next airings will be on Friday January 27th and Saturday January 28th - check your local listings for more details. You can also sign in with your TV provider to watch the episode anytime online!
To learn more about the For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum, visit facebook.com/Formarnaturepreserve.
Kodo's Wind Tunnel Appears on Episode "Nature's Super HQ" If you were watching Animal Planet last Friday night, you may have noticed an exciting surprise - Kodo's Wind Tunnel made its TV debut on Treehouse Masters! The episode was...
Like chocolate and peanut butter, some pairings are undeniably wonderful. We are so pleased to announce that Kodo and Teaching Strategies® have partnered together! Our teams have collaborated to create unique packages of high-quality materials to support high-quality instruction.
Over the years, Kodo has become the leader in innovative products in the early education field. Our truly open-ended materials offer teachers and children flexibility in the classroom.That, however, can also lead to confusion! For years, we’ve heard, “I love Kodo products, but how do I use them in our program?” Our answer, of course, is “There are endless possibilities! Use them to support your curriculum!” It’s always been important to us to help teachers connect open-ended materials with multiple learning objectives. Thus, our partnership with Teaching Strategies® came to be. By aligning our products with flexible frameworks for learning and assessment, educators are empowered to recognize the possibilities for how, why, and where children will benefit from them most.
Each of the collections is organized by learning area. If your classroom environment is arranged in centers, these materials are well suited to support your children’s daily explorations! If you use the Creative Curriculum®, all of the materials will compliment your implementation and support many of the studies. If you practice an emergent or play-based curriculum, use the materials to support children’s interests and investigations throughout the classroom.
Your program might be in need of new materials to rejuvenate classroom spaces or develop new learning centers. The nature of Kodo’s open-ended classroom tools ensures that children will use and combine them in ways that help them actively explore integrated concepts and ideas, support them to think critically and problem-solve, and may just surprise you with how creatively they invent ways to use them. When children have high quality materials that offer them choices, it’s not surprising that teachers notice a marked increase in engagement and communication. All in all, use these collections to enhance your learning areas, fuel inquiry and investigation, support children’s emerging interests, and authentically assess children’s learning and skill development.
Learn more about our curated collections here. There are four collections in each interest area, and range from a basic kit (Level I) and build up to our most robust and substantial kit (Level IV). And as always, contact us with questions! We’re always here to help!
Like chocolate and peanut butter, some pairings are undeniably wonderful. We are so pleased to announce that Kodo and Teaching Strategies® have partnered together! Our teams have collaborated to create unique packages of high-quality materials to support high-quality instruction. Over...
From The Kodo Design Studio - Kodo Playscape Platforms
When it comes to product design, Kodo is recognized worldwide as a leader in innovative thinking. Earlier this month we premiered our new Playscape Platforms to an international audience at NAEYC. The response was overwhelmingly positive and many, many educators stopped to ask us how we design and create such wonderful products. We thought everyone would like a peek into our process.
Rethinking a Classroom Staple: The Block Platform
Virtually all products begin with an idea. Sometimes during the design and prototyping process the development of one one product can inform and influence the design of another. Such was the case with Kodo’s new Playscape Platforms. While creating a new product to replace the ordinary block platform in classrooms, Grey Waletich, Kodo’s lead designer, had an “aha” moment.
What is a block platform? It is an elevated “landscape” to build on. Why are most block platforms square or rectangular? The landscape we see outside is not square or rectangular, it is organic. The tools and materials we create for students should draw inspiration from everyday life.
The stunning result of Grey’s insight is our innovative system of circular platforms and arches which support children to create their own landscapes for play with blocks, ramps, and story play accessories. Learn more about Kodo Playscapes Platforms >>
When it comes to product design, Kodo is recognized worldwide as a leader in innovative thinking. Earlier this month we premiered our new Playscape Platforms to an international audience at NAEYC. The response was overwhelmingly positive and many, many educators stopped to...
Kodo Virtual Learning Has Launched
It’s an exciting time for Kodo Kids since launching our Virtual Learning Program the beginning of March. As part of our overall vision and commitment to supporting continuous quality improvement, it became evident that we needed the ability to connect virtually. Staying true to our in-person professional development opportunities, we have incorporated play sessions, observation opportunities, and reflections! Let’s take a closer look at Kodo Kid’s Virtual Learning:
Investigation Based Teaching Practices
>At the core of our professional development opportunities are the Investigation Based Teaching Practices. This is our guide to and basis in supporting children in a play based learning environment. The following courses were launched and available as a bundle:
Learning Approaches to Foster Engineering
Adult and Child Interactions to Foster Engineering
Enhancing the Environment to Foster Engineering
How does Kodo Virtual Learning work?
After registering for any course with Kodo Kids at www.kodo.learnupon.com, you will receive an email with information specific to that course. All courses are asynchronous, in which you have the ability to login as many times as you need to complete the course work. After completing the requirements of the course, you will be emailed your certificate. Further, you can login to your dashboard to retrieve your previous course information.
How is Kodo Virtual Learning different?
There are several items that set us apart from other virtual learning opportunities:
Since it is our belief that all individuals learn through experience (including play!), courses have provocations associated with them. Some involve gathering materials to have a play experience, while others might involve providing a provocation for children and observing their play. After you are finished with the provocation, it is important to come back online to the course and post your reflection.
All of our courses have a Trainer associated with the course. The Trainer is available to provide assistance to all learners, as well as, interact within the discussion board.
Interactive courses allow for learners to not only be engaged through the course work but to also involve research-based content and video’s, where applicable. Further, interaction is available with the learner and trainer through private message boards, the discussion forum, and follow-up as needed.
What is next for Kodo Virtual Learning?
As part of the learning process, Kodo will be launching Professional Learning Communities (PLC). These Virtual PLCs will be open discussion forums for those with common interests. These interests can expand beyond just STEM! Further, discussion forums will be facilitated by a professional that will be available to answer questions, post photo and video provocations, and stimulate learning among the members.
Virtual Coaching will be available for programs that do not have access to a Kodo Trainer, or for programs that need an education opportunity specific to their needs.
Kodo Virtual Learning Video
Take a look at our Kodo Virtual Learning video on the Kodo Kids YouTube channel!
Kodo Virtual Learning Contact Information
Kodo Virtual Learning Website - https://kodo.learnupon.com
Kodo Virtual Learning Email - vl@kodokids.com
Kodo Virtual Learning Has Launched It’s an exciting time for Kodo Kids since launching our Virtual Learning Program the beginning of March. As part of our overall vision and commitment to supporting continuous quality improvement, it became evident that we...
SXSWedu: Fostering the Maker Movement in Early Childhood Education
On March 8th, Kodo founder Chris Hume presented at SXSWedu alongside National Head Start Executive Director Yasmina Vinci, Divisional Director Head Start and Early Head Start Wassy Tesfa, and Lisa Brahms, the Director of Learning and Research at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh. The distinguished panel addressed Fostering the Maker Movement in Early Childhood Education.
Says Hume, "The audience questions and participation were great, and included incredible discussion on how to facilitate the tinker mindset in both children and teachers. The insight the other panelists brought to the room was inspiring - Brahms delved into makerspaces for multiple ages, while Tesfa brought wisdom on implementing makerspaces into your program."
At Kodo, we wholeheartedly support the maker movement in education, especially early education. We look forward to being a driving force in this movement in the years to come. We encourage you to watch some of the clips from our presentation below to learn more about the future of Makerspaces in early childhood education!
The panel responds to "what does makerspace mean to you?"
Addressing Technology in the Classroom
On March 8th, Kodo founder Chris Hume presented at SXSWedu alongside National Head Start Executive Director Yasmina Vinci, Divisional Director Head Start and Early Head Start Wassy Tesfa, and Lisa Brahms, the Director of Learning and Research at the Children's Museum...
Flexnest, an SDSU and Kodo Collaboration Project, Receives National Award
Flexnest Recognized as Best in Category for "Design As Idea"
It is with pride and excitement that we announce that the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) National Conference recently gave national recognition to Flexnest, a project collaboration between South Dakota State University Alumni Vanny Cahyadi and Grey Waletich (now a Kodo employee!) and Kodo Founder Chris Hume. The Flexnest is an innovative piece of furniture that functions not only as a place for adults and children to sit, but which also doubles as a collection of loose parts and trays for storage. Flexnest was given the distinction of "Best in Category: Design as Idea". Projects in this category explore the entire spectrum of design. Submissions can either be conceptual in character and/or completed projects, furniture design, lighting, product design, stage/set design, textile design, exhibition design, etc. The judging process is blind-reviewed by nationally and internationally recognized jurors who are interior designers, architects, artists, or curators. Juror's comments on the project included: “This project was very well presented and coordinated. The idea is very intriguing, and the details of the project are simple yet sophisticated,” and “this design applies the concept of Loose Parts very effectively. The approach to which the loose parts within the design are put together in a multitude of uses enables a challenging experience and ability for children imaginations to explore. It was well executed." On behalf of the Kodo team, congrats to Grey and Chris! To view the PDF of the portfolio submission, click here.
Flexnest Recognized as Best in Category for "Design As Idea" It is with pride and excitement that we announce that the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) National Conference recently gave national recognition to Flexnest, a project collaboration between South Dakota...
Kodo's TV Debut on Treehouse Masters
Kodo's Wind Tunnel Appears on Episode "Nature's Super HQ"
If you were watching Animal Planet last Friday night, you may have noticed an exciting surprise - Kodo's Wind Tunnel made its TV debut on Treehouse Masters!
The episode was titled "Nature's Super HQ" and told the story of For Mar Nature Preserve in Flint, Michigan. The treehouse serves as a classroom in the sky for visitors of all ages, and provides an educational and entertaining resource for a community still reeling from the water crisis that began in 2014. To date, the treehouse has already received over 28,000 visitors and hosts educational programs, field trips, schools, scout groups, the local community, and more.
The Wind Tunnel Appears on Treehouse Masters
During the episode, we follow Pete Nelson as he walks us through the design process and construction of the treehouse. Then, towards the end, Pete brings in his interior designer to turn the empty treehouse into an exciting classroom space. At one point, she enters the treehouse carrying the Wind Tunnel, or, as she lovingly put it, the "little wind turbine thing", explaining to viewers how children will use it to learn about aerodynamics. The Wind Tunnel finds its home in a corner of the treehouse where it's positioned to shoot Play Silks and other fun materials through a 'Y' shaped trunk of tree that grows through the middle of the room.
Watch Again on Animal Planet
If you missed the show, you can catch reruns on Animal Planet! The next airings will be on Friday January 27th and Saturday January 28th - check your local listings for more details. You can also sign in with your TV provider to watch the episode anytime online!
To learn more about the For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum, visit facebook.com/Formarnaturepreserve.
Kodo's Wind Tunnel Appears on Episode "Nature's Super HQ" If you were watching Animal Planet last Friday night, you may have noticed an exciting surprise - Kodo's Wind Tunnel made its TV debut on Treehouse Masters! The episode was...
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