Collective Observations: Tim Gill
Event Information
About this Event
Considering Collective's home on Calton Hill as a civic site, free for the people of Edinburgh to enjoy, we have invited scholar, advocate, and consultant on childhood, Tim Gill, to give a live presentation.
Tim Gill has long been an advocate both for reconnecting children with the natural world, and for designing urban spaces which prioritise children’s exploration and independence.
Tim will introduce why children’s play and free time matters, the importance of risk in childhood development, and will discuss approaches to supporting and encouraging a child’s natural instinct to play.
The Covid-19 pandemic and measures for controlling the virus have impacted the lives of different generations in different ways. Children have suffered the 'collateral damage' of lockdowns and school and playground closures through limited opportunities for play, decreased mobility, and a widening attainment gap.
Tim will consider the significant impact of these measures on children’s lives, and how we can advocate for a balanced strategic response which leaves space for play.
"If children are to enjoy and make the most of their lives, we need to revisit and revise our ideas of what a good childhood looks and feels like. We need to reconnect children with the people and places around them, and with the natural world on their doorstep. We need to design neighbourhoods so that it is easy for children to walk, cycle, get closer to nature and play near their homes. We need to improve play and recreational spaces and services, and ensure that schools, nurseries and childcare settings give children time and space for play and exploration.
We need to support parents, so they feel able to give their children some of the freedoms that previous generations enjoyed when they were young. We need to accept that it is natural and healthy for children to take risks, make mistakes, have everyday adventures and test themselves and their boundaries."
Tim Gill
Join us online, live from the City Observatory at Collective, as Tim presents his findings on Zoom and answers questions in the chat function.