Observation-Based Play Groups:
“Do less, enjoy more.” —Magda Gerber
Day/Time: Wednesdays 9:30am – 12pm
Location: Forest Glen Woods
Join other area caregivers and kids on Wednesday mornings for unstructured forest playtime. The goal of this event is to give kids a chance for unstructured outdoor play.
About
Time for Uninterrupted Free Play
In this group, there are no planned activities or lessons. That is intentional. Children move, explore, and engage at their own pace. Adults stay close, but practice observing before intervening. This creates space to notice what kids are actually doing and learn more about who they are.
Many parents are used to feeling responsible for entertaining, guiding, or helping their child. This space offers something different—the chance to step back, watch more closely, and respond with greater clarity.
Schedule
Each week we meet at Forest Glen Woods. Park towards the back of the parking lot and we’ll meet on the grass near the picnic shelter. We start at 9:30am with a snack and introductions and then take off down the path at 10:15am.
- 9:30am: Meet at the pavilion. This is a good time to have a snack and settle in. (We avoid eating while we are playing in the forest. Eating beforehand helps children settle more deeply into play without grumbling tummies.)
- 10:10am: Introductions before we head down the trail. We walk at the children’s pace. We follow their lead and minimize adult discussion. This walk can take as long as the kids choose.
- 10:30am (approximate): Arrive at the play space and settle in.
- 10:45-11:15am: Observation time—during this time, we minimize adult discussion and focus on what the children are doing.
- 11:35am: Circle time.
- 11:50am: Walk back to the pavilion together.
- 12:00pm: Most of us stay for lunch together back at the pavilion. Pack a lunch and join us. You can leave your lunch in the car so that you don’t have to carry it with you.
Snack
We allow time for a snack at the beginning before we head down the trail. This allows kids the ability to fully focus on play without being distracted by grumbling bellies. While you and your kids are certainly welcome to eat anytime you want, the structure is set up to avoid snacks during the main time for play.
Safety
You are fully responsible for the children in your care. Please establish the safety boundaries that make sense for your family.
The event will continue rain or shine. We will cancel in case of severe weather (lightning).
Frequently Asked Questions
What to wear?
This area can get quite muddy so bring your rain boots and gear! It can be useful to bring an extra set of clothes in case kids get wet.
Dressing in layers is extremely helpful to ensure that kids are comfortable outside. For info on dressing in cooler weather, check out this article.
What to bring?
Snack for the beginning before we head out, water, extra gear in case clothing/gear gets wet. Sunscreen and bug spray.
Lunch for after if you are planning on staying for a picnic lunch.
What is the age range of kids?
Kids of all ages are welcome at this event! Kids tend to be between 0-8.
Are there bathrooms?
The bathrooms are open for the summer months. There used to be a porta potty next to the pavilion but that has been removed so you will need to walk to the other side of the parking lot to use the bathrooms (it isn’t far but you may want to allow extra time).
Have any other questions? Please reach out, and I’d be happy to connect.