Outdoor Play-Based Learning & Exploration for Kids in Mountainside & Fanwood, NJ
Hands-on enrichment classes that spark curiosity, creativity, and a love of the natural world
Play In Nature offers outdoor enrichment classes for children ages 18 months to 8 years in Union County, NJ. Through guided nature exploration, sensory play, movement, and hands-on discovery, children build curiosity, creativity, early learning skills, and confidence in an outdoor setting.
Summer Play In Nature Program Details
Open to children ages 2–8 years, this caregiver-child program meets once a week for six weeks. At our Fanwood location, families may register for 4, 5, or all 6 class weeks to accommodate vacation schedules. An additional make-up date is built into the schedule in case of inclement weather.
Play In Nature - Mountainside
Borough Hall Nature Trail
TUESDAYS, 9:30-10:30am
5 spots left
Jun 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug 4 - Make up Aug 11
Register @ https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/mountainside-nj/catalog
Play In Nature - Fanwood
Fanwood Nature Center
TUESDAYS, 6:15pm-7:15pm
Jun 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug 4 - Make up Aug 11
WEDNESDAYS, 9:30-10:30am
2 spots left
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5 - Make up Aug 12
Register @ https://tinyurl.com/PlayInNatureFanwood
Fee: $130 (4 classes) - $162.50 (5 classes) - $195 (6 classes)
What does a Play In Nature class look like?
This child-caregiver class will meet for an opening activity and circle time filled with exploring, song, and story. Participants will then be taken on a guided hike through a nature trail for the main play activity. Classes will end with a final snack, chat, and goodbye circle time. Chats will include information about play and social skill development and ways to further support your children outside of class. Classes run in most weather, as long as it's safe weather. Our play and exploration is often messy. There will always be options for little explorers who are just getting comfortable with messy play. This is an inclusive, enrichment class experience. No intake process is necessary to participate. 15 kids max per class.
PLAY IN NATURE MAKE UP POLICY: Your child is welcome to make up one missed class per season. The missed class must be made up in an alternate class running in the current season, or in the next season classes are offered.
Our Play In Nature team includes Kristina Quigley, Kari Whitehurst, Julia Torres, and Bonnie Polanco
The Tinkergarten curriculum is used in classes. Classes vary each season.
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