Youth Center by Alon Shofman, Israel 2007
Youth Center by Alon Shofman, Israel 2007
The Youth Center is a social and recreational center intended primarily for use by children ages 11 to 18 years. In some cases, children as young as six years old will use a Youth Center, but usually only if special programs are in place to accommodate them. The Center supports opportunities for youth to develop their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive abilities and to experience achievement, leadership, enjoyment, friendship, and recognition.
The Youth Center offers organized instructional programs for physical activities such as dance, yoga, and martial arts and for academic and arts programs such as science, crafts, and theater. It also offers opportunities for unstructured activities such as game playing, socializing, club meetings, and outdoor play.
While unstructured activities are an essential part of a Youth Center, these are staffed facilities and control and supervision are critical elements. These elements impact facility design as do considerations for youth-friendly and youth-appealing design. Safety is also of paramount importance.