Hi everyone,

We’re a group of parents whose children attend The Play Lab , a unique early childhood program that’s unlike anything we’ve ever experienced.

The Play Lab isn’t traditional childcare. It’s a space where kids are trusted, not tamed. Where play is prioritized. And where childhood is seen as sacred.

It’s built around a powerful mission:

“To foster joy, trusting relationships, nature stewardship, and learning through play.”

Unfortunately, due to rising costs, a few of the Play Lab’s summer adventure days—special, play-based outings that are a core part of the program—are at risk of being canceled.

Transportation and access fees have made them financially unworkable without extra support.

We’re hoping to raise $650 to help cover van rentals and entrance fees so those days can still happen. If we can hit our goal, the Play Lab staff can bring these days back, and keep the magic of summer going for these kids!

Why we’re asking:

The Play Lab is doing something different.

Under the leadership of Kisa Marx and her incredible team, this program centers emotional safety, curiosity, inclusivity, and collective care.

There’s no rigid curriculum. No adult-centered checklists. Just skilled, intentional support that allows children to lead with their own questions, explore nature freely, and grow through experience. This is the kind of environment we wish every child could have access to.

If you believe in rethinking early childhood learning, If you believe in nurturing emotional health alongside education, If you believe in programs that actually meet kids where they are…

We’d be so grateful if you could contribute. Even a small donation makes a difference!

Let’s help keep this incredible space going strong through the summer.

Thank you for being part of a larger community that sees the value in raising children with intention, compassion, and play.

— With gratitude,

Parents who’ve seen how special The Play Lab is

Want to learn more about The Play Lab and the mission behind it?

Visit https://theplaylabnfpoakpark.org/ to see how this space is reshaping early childhood learning through joy, nature, and play!