An extension of the Progressive movement's growing prioritization of child safety and ideas about education through play, the American Playground Movement was institutionalized in 1906 with the formation of the Playgrounds Association of America. However, the movement began in the nineteenth century, with the creation of play spaces such as Starr Garden Park in Philadelphia in 1882 and Smith Memorial Playground in Philadelphia in 1899.

Join the Carpenters' Company at the Starr Garden Recreation Center, located at 600 Lombard St in Philadelphia, from 6:30 to 8:00pm on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 for an exploration of the playground movmenet, and to learn about innovations in playground architecture today and the future of playful learning. 

The Executive Director of Smith Memorial Playground, Frances Hoover, will provide meaningful historical context on the playground movement in Philadelphia. Architects Mayva Donnon from KSS Architects, Trevor Lee from Olin Studio, Charles Neer from WRT, and Meghan Talarowski from Studio Ludo will present case studies on recent playful learning projects and discuss advancements in playground architecture and playful learning theory. 

All proceeds from this event will be donated to Starr Garden Park. 

We hope to see you there! 

[Image credits for the above photograph of Anna C. Verna playground go to Albert Yee. Also pictured above is Smith Memorial Playground.]