Open Arms Playgarden

Open Arms Playgarden offers a daily rhythm that includes self-directed play, free-play, running, digging, climbing, swinging, pulling, pushing, carrying, gardening, caring for animals, baking, storytelling, songs, acting out stories, rhyming, circle time, movement, games, and watercolor painting. Children spend much of their time outdoors interacting with water, mud, sand, plants, and birds in a nature-connected environment that feels like home. Stories are repeated daily for a week and then acted out the following week, and familiar songs are used as cues for transitions throughout the day.

• Ages: 2–6 years old
• Schedule: Core day from 8:15am–12:45pm with after care offered Monday–Thursday from 1:00pm–3:30pm

Open Arms Playgarden is inspired by the teachings of Rudolf Steiner and Waldorf Education and offers an early childhood program that is described as loving, safe, and gentle, allowing each child to unfold and reach developmental milestones at an individual pace. The program offers 3-, 4-, and 5-day options for children 2 years up to and including Kindergarten in a home-like setting with a multi-aged group of children, and uses garden produce in meals. The daily schedule follows a predictable sequence of activities, including baking and snack preparation, puppet story, circle time, movement, songs and games, snack and clean up, crafts or watercolor painting, lunch, and outdoor free play.

The leadership team includes Ms. Maayan as Director and lead teacher, Ms. Juliette as preschool teacher, and Ms. Lori as teacher. Ms. Maayan has over 17 years of experience in early childhood education, has fostered a nurturing environment at the playgarden for over 15 years, completed four years of Waldorf teacher training at the Center for Educational Renewal at Summerfield Waldorf School, and is a mother of two. Ms. Juliette attended a Waldorf school as a child and is a preschool teacher currently pursuing a degree in early childhood education. Ms. Lori has over 17 years of experience in Waldorf kindergarten and preschool education.

Open Arms Playgarden states that it provides an extension to the child’s family and home life through constant communication and collaboration between teachers and parents, with communication and parent education used to support understanding and continuity. The program describes fostering a strong sense of community among children, teachers, and families.

Last updated March 28, 2026.