Tinkering with Purpose: How Rediscover Center's Executive Director Fosters Creativity and Sustainability

Jonathan Markowitz Bijur, the executive director of Rediscover Center, is a self-proclaimed "professional tinkerer" who has dedicated his career to empowering children to explore, create, and learn through hands-on experiences. Under his leadership, the organization has transformed into a haven for young innovators, providing them with the resources and guidance to turn their ideas into reality.

Unlocking the Power of Tinkering: Rediscover Center's Unique Approach

Tinkering as a Way of Life

Jonathan Markowitz Bijur's passion for tinkering extends beyond his professional role. As a Yale University graduate, he finds joy in experimenting with his sourdough pizza dough, constantly refining his culinary creations for his family. This innate curiosity and willingness to tinker also permeates his work at Rediscover Center, where he has made it a core part of the organization's DNA. Bijur believes that tinkering is not just a hobby but a mindset that can unlock creativity and problem-solving skills in children.

Fostering Hands-On Learning

Under Bijur's leadership, Rediscover Center has become a hub for child-centered maker education, providing 14,000 kids per year with the opportunity to tinker with recycled materials at its two locations in Venice and Mid-City. The centers offer a range of programs, including the popular Tinkering Camp, where children are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild, transforming everyday materials into extraordinary creations.

Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility

Bijur's passion for tinkering is not just about fostering creativity; it's also about instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in the children who visit Rediscover Center. The organization emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of the materials they use and making sustainable decisions about their use and disposal. This approach helps children develop a deeper appreciation for the resources they have at their disposal and the impact their actions can have on the environment.

Tinkering as a Pathway to Focus and Engagement

Bijur's own experiences as a child who needed to keep his hands busy to stay focused have shaped his understanding of the importance of tinkering. He recognizes that for some children, having something to manipulate can be a valuable tool for maintaining attention and engagement. By providing a safe and supportive environment for tinkering, Rediscover Center aims to create a haven for kids who thrive when they can actively explore and experiment.

Expanding the Reach of Maker Education

As Rediscover Center celebrates its 20th anniversary, Bijur is focused on expanding the organization's impact. The center's maker education programs have already been implemented in Los Angeles schools, with reports indicating that students demonstrate longer attention spans and higher attendance on the days they participate in these hands-on activities. Bijur's goal is to bring this transformative approach to maker education to every child in Los Angeles County, ensuring that all young learners have the opportunity to discover the joy and power of tinkering.