Parent Participated Guided Play Wednesdays at Buena Vista Park - 6 Week or 1 Week Drop In Available

Join us for Parent Participated Guided Play, Wednesdays at Buena Vista Park! We invite children ages 9 mo - 3 yrs and their parents to explore open-ended, nature-based materials through sensory play, movement, and discovery. Together, families learn how play nurtures curiosity, problem-solving, and joyful connection in the earliest years.

Sign up for all 6 weeks, or select your drop in dates.

Please note that for 6 week sign up you will attend either the Wednesday classes OR Friday classes.

This is also a great opportunity to see the Native School in action. Even if your child is on the older side, you’re welcome to come visit and take a peek into our philosophy of learning. For a limited time, we are offering the first visit for free to new families with children up to 4 years old! Use the code GPFREE2026 at checkout.

Also offered on Fridays at San Dieguito Park!

Guided Play Daily Rhythm

10:00–10:30 am | Arrival & Exploration Invitations
As families arrive, children are welcomed into thoughtfully prepared invitations for play across several areas of interest. These spaces may include construction, dramatic play, discovery, early literacy, art, and a calm corner for quiet regulation.

Teachers observe closely and engage alongside children, offering gentle prompts and language that extend curiosity while honoring each child’s pace and interests. This unhurried time allows children to settle in, reconnect with peers, and begin the day through meaningful, hands-on exploration.

10:30–10:45 am | Community Gather & Shared Snack
We come together in a circle to build community through song, simple stories, movement, games, and shared laughter. Teachers participate alongside children and caregivers, modeling joy and connection.

Snack time is woven into this gathering, encouraging growing independence. Children are supported in opening containers, using utensils, and caring for their own needs. Messes are welcomed as part of the learning process. Group experiences are always developmentally appropriate and responsive to the energy and attention spans of our youngest learners.

11:00–12:00 pm | Outdoor Exploration & Nature Walk
Following a brief restroom and diapering window, we transition into our outdoor adventure. Together, families and teachers explore the spaces surrounding our nature classroom - whether wandering through the bamboo grove, observing insects near the pond, or visiting the butterfly garden.

This is a time for noticing. For slowing down. For asking questions about the plants, birds, and tiny creatures that share our space. Children are encouraged to “work” in the natural world - digging, observing, collecting, imagining, and discovering. Depending on the terrain and length of our walk, we may suggest bringing a stroller for added comfort.

12:00 pm | Closing & Connection
We gather briefly to close our morning before saying goodbye. Families are warmly encouraged to linger, connect, and build community with one another.

As always, we welcome conversation and are here to support you and your child in this season of growth.