Kids at Play

Kids at Play is a child-led, play-based learning environment where children spend a significant portion of their instructional time outdoors. The program uses an environment that crosses boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, with an emphasis on aesthetics, safety, and relationship building. Teachers act as co-learners, and children’s interests guide the curriculum in this nature-based program that is similar to the teaching philosophy of Montessori and Waldorf but described as more affordable.

• Ages: Six weeks through first grade

Kids at Play states a mission of awakening wonder through natural experiences and authentic self expression, focusing on each child’s individual journey in a dynamic, evolving environment that encourages real-life interactions. The program describes the environment as a “third teacher,” with natural connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, and lists its values as Relationships, Honesty, Freedom, Comfort, Environment, Honor, Love, and Basics. It offers a VPK program that promotes a love of learning and nature, as well as winter, spring, and summer camps for school-age children, and notes that it provides unique and affordable opportunities for extensive outdoor play and learning that support whole child development. Kids at Play also emphasizes having strong connections between children, families, and the community, and states that its job is to create the space for children to have a voice to collaborate in their learning.

Testimonials shared by the program include: “Children deserve to learn and grow in a place and alongside a force that is as wild and alive as they are.” — Nicolette Speeded; “And at the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.” — Shanti; and “Childhood is a state of mind which ends the moment a puddle is first viewed as an obstacle instead of an opportunity.” — Unknown.

Last updated June 1, 2026.