Education for Life: A Center for Discovery
In addition to working with artisans' children, MarketPlace is expanding its reach to more kids in the Santa Cruz area, where we have a strong presence. At the heart of this effort is the Education for Life center—a vibrant space buzzing with activity from morning to evening.
During the day, while older kids are in school, the focus is on preschoolers. In partnership with Toy Bank, a non-profit, the center offers educational toys that teach colors, shapes, and motor coordination through play.
After school sessions provide access to computers, puzzles, and a cozy library corner. Reading and comprehension sessions build confidence and curiosity.
And Saturdays? They're pure joy! The center comes alive with dance, arts and crafts, drama, and playful math games. The goal is simple: make learning fun and meaningful, especially in contrast to the memorization-heavy school system.
It's a place where children grow, explore, and rediscover the joy of learning.
