Empowering learners
Articulate Cultural Trust worked with children living in Kinship Care from East Ayrshire. Kinship Care is where you live with someone who isn’t your biological parent but is still a member of your family.
The children worked with artists for three weekends to design the spaces, tools and resources that they needed to do well in education.
The initial plan was structured, with clear objectives and activities designed to encourage creativity and engagement. However, as we worked alongside the young people, it became evident that they needed something more flexible that allowed space for exploration and responded to their individual needs.
The process shifted to one where the young people could guide us, revealing what they needed most from their learning spaces. This flexible approach was much more meaningful and impactful.
We simplified our approach by asking just two basic questions:
Is it safe?
Is it kind?
These questions became an important part of the process, encouraging the young people to reflect on their behaviour and how it impact on others and the learning environment. They provided a lens that the young people could evaluate their actions and create a space that was respectful of everyones needs.
One of the highlights of the project was designing and creating fidget toys. Using a variety of materials, the young people crafted tools to help with focus, self-regulation, and emotional expression.
This activity also created important conversations about what a safe and kind environment looks and feels like. The young people shared insights about their needs and discussed how these small, personal creations could contribute to a space where they felt supported and understood.
The project showed the importance of flexibility and collaboration in creating meaningful learning environments. It became clear that young people, especially those in kinship care, often have a deep understanding of their own needs but maybe find it hard to communicate them through words.
By focusing on rights, safety, kindness, and creativity, we witnessed the young people be the leaders in their own experiences, helping to create spaces that reflected their needs and interests. The fidget toys they created were more than just tools—they were symbols of empowerment and self-expression.
