Relational Design for Remote Intergenerational Sensorial Play Experiences

Authors

Kristi Kuusk, Estonian Academy of ArtsFollow
Azeem Hamid, Estonian Academy of ArtsFollow
Zaur Babayev, Estonian Academy of ArtsFollow
Paula Veske-Lepp, TTK University of Applied SciencesFollow
Nesli Hazal Oktay, Estonian Academy of ArtsFollow

Abstract

This paper explores intergenerational mental well-being through sensorial play between children and remote grandparents. With increasing physical separation due to transnational family networks, maintaining these relationships is vital for mental health. While digital communication tools help, excessive screen use negatively impacts children's well-being. Through three case studies, we exemplify relational design sensitivities by engaging participants in co-creation, adaptive improvisation, and networked interactions through our design process. We investigate how relational design approaches combined with sensorial design could enhance connection beyond screens, emphasizing the role of embodied, multisensory engagement in intergenerational bonds.

Keywords

relational design, sensorial play, intergenerational, e-textiles

DOI

https://doi.org/10.21606/nordes.2025.57

Citation

Kuusk, K., Hamid, A., Babayev, Z., Veske-Lepp, P.,and Oktay, N.H.(2025) Relational Design for Remote Intergenerational Sensorial Play Experiences, in Brandt, E., Markussen, T., Berglund, E., Julier, G., Linde, P. (eds.), Nordes 2025: Relational Design, 6-8 August, Oslo, Norway. https://doi.org/10.21606/nordes.2025.57

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

Conference Track

Exploratory Papers