News Releases
Binghamton University's Institute for Child Development celebrates new social learning center
BINGHAMTON, NY— Children, parents and teachers associated with Binghamton University’s Institute of Child Development (ICD) joined friends and supporters in celebrating the opening of its new social learning center.
Specifically designed to meet the needs of children associated with the ICD, their siblings, and others who participate in ICD service programs, the social learning center provides a year-round safe place to play outdoors. With safety as a top priority, features include age-appropriate play areas, all-weather high-tech safety surfacing, attractive fencing and a variety of playground equipment approved by the National Program for Playground Safety.
“The social learning center will be an important part of the therapeutic experiences we offer at ICD to children and their families,” said Ray Romanczyk, director of the ICD. “Play, as part of social development, is key for our children as it helps them to develop relationships, and builds confidence and problem solving skills. This center takes it a step further in that it is specially designed to assist in the development of these skills in a fun but safe environment.”
Offering a ‘zoned’ environment, the learning center offers ‘quiet’ spaces where children can participate in individual or small-group activities, as well as ‘active’ spaces for more challenging tasks. From a project pavilion, which features tables and benches under a brightly colored canopy, to a carousel of spring-powered bouncing riders, the center offers a variety of age-appropriate creative social and teamwork building areas.
