Guided Play
Our Guided Play series offers a gentle, meaningful introduction to learning through play - set within a supportive, nature-rich environment where children are free to explore, move, and discover at their own pace.
This 6-week experience is designed for both children and caregivers, creating space to slow down and notice how play naturally supports development across all areas - social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and language. While play is joyful and child-led, it is also deeply purposeful, serving as the foundation for how young children make sense of the world.
Each day begins with open-ended exploration, where children are invited into thoughtfully prepared spaces that spark curiosity and creativity. Caregivers are supported in learning how to engage alongside their child - following their lead, extending ideas, and recognizing the learning already taking place within simple moments.
We come together for a brief community gathering with songs, stories, and shared experiences, offering a rhythm of connection and language-rich interaction. Our time also includes a child-led nature walk, where children are free to observe, wonder, and explore without rush - allowing for deeper engagement with the natural world and with one another.
To help families experience the program, we’re currently offering free first drop-in classes through May 31, 2026. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore Guided Play, get a feel for the rhythm of our days, and see if it feels like a good fit before committing to a full session, or joining our other programs.
Guided Play is an invitation to step into your child’s world, build connection, and experience how meaningful learning unfolds through play.
Wednesdays in Vista
(class currently closed)
Fridays in Del Mar
(FREE first visit ending May 30!)
9:30AM - 12:30PM
FOR CHILDREN AGED (9 MONTHS-3 YEARS) to engage in adventure play:
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Child-Centered: Children choose their activities and interests, promoting intrinsic motivation.
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Adult Involvement: Parents and guardians observe and interact with children, asking open-ended questions to extend their thinking and exploration.
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Environment: The learning environment is carefully designed to stimulate curiosity and encourage interactions.
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Collaborative Learning: Children often work together, sharing ideas and problem-solving collaboratively.
Our team has created beautifully curated natural spaces for you and your little one to explore and participate in:
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Symbolic and Dramatic: This interest area offers children a space to explore their creativity and begin to play collaboratively with peers. Through creating narratives of their own, children are building the foundation of their literacy skills.
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Curated Libraries: A serene spot where you can dive into nature-themed stories, sparking imagination and a love for the outdoors.
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Calm Corners: A quiet space for students to explore ways to identify emotions and regulate their bodies.
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Construction and Building Play: Engage with natural elements to create structures, fostering teamwork and creativity while appreciating the beauty of the environment.
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Discovery: The Discovery interest are challenges children to use their logic and critical thinking skills. Elements of numeracy and science skills will be developed through play.
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Music and Movement: Through songs, dance, and instruments, children will benefit from the self expression and rhythm skills that accompany this interest area.
AND SO MUCH MORE...
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Various studies have shown that children who play and explore in nature:
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Experience fewer illnesses
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Stay more physically active
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Build greater resilience to stress
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Develop a stronger sense of self-worth
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Cultivate higher emotional intelligence
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Gain intuitive risk assessment skills
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Enhance imagination and creativity
