We decided that we wanted to work on the step cubby project because it was a problem that was different than all of the other groups and was a problem that the Child Study Center always had.
In further brainstorming, first we looked at collapsable stairs: much like the ones used for attics or pets, but we soon decided that it would be to complicated and more unsafe for the children due to too many moving parts.
So we stuck with an idea similar to what we started with: a drawer type sliding step
Now presenting: Cubby Buddies!
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| *cubby step is in |
Here is a more in depth version of the design:
The Cubby Buddy will also have a handle on it so the children can pull it in and out with ease (just like a drawer!)
Control and Feedback:
For the control and feedback portion of the project we planned on putting lights up on the shelves that would light up green, yellow, and red when the children step on a force plate that will be on top of the step.
Added Safety feature:
The handles will provide extra support and stability for the children for getting up or getting down the cubby buddy.
UPDATES AFTER PRESENTATION & BECKY'S FEEDBACK
To think about:
-Children do not easily associate colors of lights with directions because it is too abstract of a concept, therefore the color of the lights will not be useful indicators. Signs and pictures on the other hand are very useful and effective!
-Children are very top heavy, so making the cubby buddy usable with feet would be a very nice solution!
Positives:
- Handles are awesome! (you can never be too safe)
-It fosters independence! yay!
-Lights are a good option because they are not loud and distracting to the classrooms nearby.
Moving Forward:
Becky's comments really helped us put things in perspective for the children, moving forward we are going to think about making the handle easily used with hands or feet, get rid of the red, yellow, green lights, and think about putting up a kick sign to remind the children to put away the cubby.
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