To what extent are our MYP students aware of the world´s problems? At Colegio Internacional Ausiàs March this year, MYP students embarked on a remarkable journey to make a difference. They developed project in Design, one of our MYP subjects, in which they addressed the problems faced by refugee children by creating toys for these displaced young people.
Our students not only showcased their empathy diving into the world of refugee children and their experiences, but also learned about the significance of Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child: the right to play.Working in pairs, they harnessed the power of diverse perspectives, brainstorming ideas and overcoming design challenges.
With their creativity and following the design cycle, students worked with various techniques and materials such as fabric, wood, and recycled materials. They brought their ideas to life, ensuring each toy was unique, safe, and meaningful. From handcrafted puzzles and building blocks to soft toys and role play games, the toys represented a gateway to unlimited possibilities and moments of joy.In the student´s reflections, at the end of the project, and even though the ‘field test’ was done with children of our own school, MYP students showed their understanding of the goal of play with toys: beyond just being a fun way to spend some time, it is a vital tool for healing, expression, and fostering resilience.
Through endeavours like this, we can create inclusive societies where all children are given the opportunity to experience the transformative power of play, regardless of their circumstances.
