Design is all around us, and we are all better for it. 

When my daughter was young it wasn’t uncommon for her to rifle through the recycle bin in search of materials to create something.  Spring reminds me of that spirit of creation and renewal and inspiration just as my daughter saw in the discarded trash.  As you begin your spring adventures with your kids here are some ideas for teaching them to observe design that is all around us:

Farmer’s Market:  There is no better place to discuss color than at a farmer’s market.  Not only can your kids take part in shopping locally for their food they can also turn it into a yummy meal of highly saturated, highly nutritious colors!

Forest Walks:  Peavy Arboretum is a special place only a short drive for many of us in the Albany- Corvallis area.  There is a Japanese term meaning the interplay between light and leaves when sunlight shines through trees called Komorebi.  What shapes might you and your kids observe this spring? 

Urban art tour:  Along with several art galleries in the Albany and Corvallis area we have numerous public art displays.  Whether you’re on the water front in Albany or Corvallis there are several pieces by talented artists to enjoy.  

One of the greatest skills we can teach our children is that of observation. I hope you will enjoy this spring taking in the beauty of design that is all around us.