The Play Lab accepts applications year-round, but enrollment is not guaranteed. All families seeking care are encouraged to join our waiting list. Spots are allocated based on need, with priority given to families with subsidies, rather than on a first-come, first-served basis.
Thank you for considering the Play Lab for your next adventure!
Welcome to the Real World
For children attending more than 20 hours per week. Our full-time program offers a comprehensive, immersive experience in a child-centered, anti-oppressive, play and nature-focused environment.
$333 Per Week
Available for under 20 hours per week with limited spots. Our part-time program provides the same enriching, child-centered experience on a flexible schedule.
$200 Per Week
As-needed, based on availability. Perfect for occasional care, our drop-in service offers a safe, engaging space for children to explore and play.
$115 Per Day
Please allow at least 48 hours for receipt of your waitlist application and your place in line. Thank you!
Nicolette Sowder
Maria Montessori posed the question: How much fuller and richer life would be if we saw the
child in all his greatness, all her beauty, instead of focusing on all their little mistakes?
This question anchors The Play Lab's child-centered approach. Quiet observation is required to see the magic that is within each tiny body. Stepping back is required to ensure that they have room to be brave, to experiment, and flourish. At the Play Lab, children have the freedom to take the lead, and I facilitate a sovereign environment where they can bring the bounties of their imagination to life.
Nature is defined as anything pertaining to earth, air, land, and human creation, and our crew is going to be sure to experience all of the above! Using the nature as a teacher model as a template, our learning environment flows both inside and out, so that the children have the liberty to experience the flora and fauna all year round. With the vast mental, physical, and cognitive benefits the natural world has, immersing ourselves in it-whether it is interacting with the various house pets and plants indoors, or through the infinite creatures and lush tapestry in our classroom without walls- is an essential part of our daily routine.
Connection is an integral step to feeling seen, heard, and valued. A core value of Kidcrewadventures is cultivating respectful, responsive relationships with each child. This practice extends beyond our learning environment and reaches our crew's grownups, their families and the greater community because it is through modeling respect and receptivity that a fundamental social-emotional skill is scaffolded: How to treat others, and how it is that they should be treated.
Whether it's a family fun, building relationships with neighbors or service people on our route, getting to know the helpers while on our nature walks, or in conjunction with community organizers, Kidcrewadventures is intentional about strengthening the roots we have put down in our village.