Little Bricks Big Ideas
A series of activities to teach elementary students the creative and collaborative architecture design process.
Little Bricks Big Ideas is a step-by-step instructional curriculum designed to teach the value of architecture and urban design to future generations.
What is in this book?
This book offers a curriculum geared toward elementary-age children, aimed at introducing them to the collaborative process behind building and neighborhood design.
Each section includes a hands-on activity, materials list, teacher guide, and student questionnaire. The activities build on one another as kids move through the stages of design—from ideation and planning to construction and presentation.
Each project is interactive and adaptable to any neighborhood or urban/suburban environment. We ❤️ Chicago, and many aspects of the book are inspired by our home city.
Who is this book for?
The activities are designed for elementary-age children. The book itself can be used by parents, teachers, or anyone looking to teach the architectural design process to young learners.
Who made this book?
This book was made by Epic Art House. We are a community arts education space in Chicago.
When will this book be available?
The book is complete! With support from a City of Chicago grant, we’re printing the first run of copies. This Kickstarter campaign will help us increase the order size and spread the word. We plan to print in June/July 2025 and ship copies in July/August 2025.
Big thanks to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events for their generous support!
Why did you make this book?
At Epic Art House, we welcome families year-round who are looking for meaningful creative experiences. One of our most popular programs was a kids’ architecture and engineering series that invited children to reimagine Chicago.
That series became the inspiration for Little Bricks Big Ideas, which we’ve now expanded into this book and full curriculum.
Created by Epic Art House
We are a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering connection and creativity in Chicago.
Our mission is carried out through events, classes, and programs for all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. Epic Art House is a safe space for exploration, imagination, and community.
📍 Visit us at 1850 N Western Ave. Chicago, IL