Files
Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Architecture
College
Arts and Sciences
Department
Architecture
Faculty Advisor
Charlott Greub
Studio Coordinator
Stephen Wischer
Faculty Chair
Susan Kliman
Publisher
North Dakota State University
Rights
NDSU policy 190.6.2
URI
https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf
Abstract
This thesis challenges traditional childcare facility design strategies and studies and develops design principles that facilitate and support children’s cognitive development. By understanding how children learn through cognitive and neuroarchitecture research, this thesis targets cognitive milestones within each age range of children to best support their early childhood developmental needs. This proposed childcare facility design will incorporate children’s learning needs, large motor function developmental needs, sensory exploration, interactive design, proximity to nature, and childcare licensing requirements to produce a quality and effective design.
Located in Shakopee, Minnesota this project addresses underserved and growing communities in need of childcare. Therefore, this thesis blends the integration of neuroarchitecture, two Italian teaching philosophies: the Reggio Emilia approach and the Montessori method, licensing needs, and the proximity to the outdoor environment to develop design principles by applying neuroarchitecture and Italian pedagogies to a childcare center.
Recommended Citation
Parkin, Makayla, "Little Wonders: Designing Childcare Facilities That Facilitate Cognitive Development Inspired by Reggio Emilia and Montessori Pedagogies" (2026). Architecture Theses. 65.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/65