Mapping My Area
Mapping My Area teaches children valuable map-reading skills while getting them out into their neighborhoods to find and document the components that make their home place special. Children learn to identify and appreciate the desirable features of their neighborhoods and locate, discuss and learn how to change the detrimental ones. It culminates with the children creating a unique map of their own home place. The program can be tailored to highlight ecological stewardship or social justice, providing a comprehensive framework that values a diversity of perspectives, problem-solving styles, and ethnic heritage.
This introduction to maps, mapmaking, and social and natural history investigations is targetted for K-5 children in all Seattle's diverse neighborhoods. Mapping My Area also utilizes the international Green Mapping icons to identify the sustainable features in their neighborhood. Learn more about the Green Map System.
Created as “Mapping My Place” in partnership with Seattle Parks & Recreation, Homewaters renamed and revised the program to deliver it to audiences outside of Seattle Parks. Still the same are its activities and its emphasis on the idea that the environment is more than just the natural world, but the social world as well. It's all connected!
Stories of Place
Becoming an inhabitant of your home place involves learning both the natural and cultural history. Go to our Resources page to find out where you can go to learn about your community.
Homewaters Project ~ 9600 College Way North, Seattle, WA 98103-3599 ~ 206.526.0187