An educational shape-making building set [Kinder Works]
K’WERK
Interactive (Toy) Design | 2022
TEAM
Iu Mi Kim, Liam Borsa
FACTS
Co-designed with a 4 y.o. Mike
User Research, Product Design, Material Exploration, Sketching, Rapid Prototyping, Technical Drawings, 3D Modelling, User Testing, Woodwork, Textiles
SKILLS
TOOLS
Adobe CC, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Rhino, CNC
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The project is to create an interactive object for children aged 4 to 10. The product follows standard manufacturing requirements: simple, repetitive elements made of Baltic birch plywood. The project aims to improve play and care practices for children and their caregivers. We are to explore effective ways to connect and build with simple shapes, allowing children to engage in imaginative play and problem-solving. This approach supports cognitive development, encourages independent thinking, and accommodates various learning styles and developmental stages, ultimately fostering skill development and personal growth in young minds.
| Preliminary and Field Research with Mike!
With the use of building blocks and magnetic elastic links, children are empowered to express their creativity and develop critical thinking skills.
This is all done while discovering energy stored in magnets and elastics; forces of gravity; tensile strength; kinetics.
| Ideation.
Initial Sketching
Rapid Prototyping
Material Prototyping
Brainstorming
| Little User Testing & Iterative Prototyping.
| Outcome & Reflection.
To create an engaging and unique experience for children, we fully embraced the world of play, drawing inspiration from exploration and imagination. Working closely with a 4-year-old Mike, allowed us to dive into the heart of the play and discovered the pure joy seen through a child's eyes. This immersive experience profoundly impacted our process, and we eagerly channelled this passion into K’WERK.
Instruction Sheet