Play to Learn is a free cooperative early learning program for children, ages 6 and younger, and their caregivers to interact and play together. It is a welcoming space where children can be themselves and learn at their own pace through playful experiences, offered at multiple locations across Pierce County.
“This seems really unique. It is amazing how you do not have to pay for this. This is really wonderful. I think it’s really well done, I think it is amazing” – Grandma Anne, a second-time Play to Learn attendee from Minnesota
What Families Can Expect From Play to Learn
Each Play to Learn session offers various activities for children, curated by Greentrike facilitators, from art projects to dance breaks. Children are encouraged to participate in collaborative and open-ended play that will not only be fun, but help them learn through hands-on experiences. Play to Learn facilitators are always there to assist with any child’s needs.
Group Play
Circle time is led by a Play to Learn educator. It is a time where all children and adults can explore the theme of the week, express themselves through dancing and singing, hear stories, and participate in parachute time! Group participation is encouraged.
“Teacher Jenna is wonderful! I like how they talk in signs and transitions. It is nice to see how the children have to clean up multiple times and help learn how to transition.” – Karliy, a Play to Learn regular
Individual Play
There are a variety of toys and manipulatives around the room for families to interact with during individual play time. Some of these items include tents, blocks, stuffed animals, and fidget toys. Play dough areas are set up as well for children who prefer time to themselves, or a quieter space for individual play.
Recognition Months
Play to Learn celebrates the rich diversity and lived experiences of people of Pierce County. Each month, Play to Learn acknowledges and celebrates different heritages, cultures, and social issues. Recognition months create the opportunity for learning how to count in different languages, read books, and participate in different culturally related activities.
Inclusive Play to Learn
Play to Learn partners with A Step Ahead in Pierce County and offers Inclusive Play to Learn designed for families with children experiencing special needs. Inclusive Play to Learn offers everything that Play to Learn has to offer, and includes a snack time! Inclusive Play to Learn sessions require that families register through A Step Ahead in Pierce County. For more information on Inclusive Play to Learn, please click here.
Opportunities for Families to Grow and Play Together
Play to Learn encourages children to explore individuality and creative thinking in a safe and welcoming space. Play to Learn encourages caregivers to follow their children’s interests and express who they are through each activity that is offered. Hands-on and open-ended play allows children to build important skills for their development.
Both children and caregivers are welcome to join the fun! Play to Learn gives the unique opportunity for each individual to connect and learn together. While Play to Learn encourages individuality, it also allows everyone to explore the importance of community.
So why choose Play to Learn?
Skill Development
Children are constantly learning at every stage of life. They are curious and full of energy. Play to Learn is an outlet for children to learn about themselves, others, and different topics at their own place through play.
Play to Learn offers activities for children to develop their fine and gross motor skills. There are areas in the room to help children develop their fine skills through using paint brushes, markers, and a variety of play dough tools. Participating in circle time — where most of the dancing takes place — will help them further develop their gross motor skills through their movement.
While the fine and gross motor skills are important for children to develop, Play to Learn also focuses on social-emotional skills. This can be strengthened through collaborative play, problem-solving, and interacting with others.
Accessibility
Play to Learn has been on a mission to bring playful experiences to the community since 2007. Sessions are spread out across multiple neighborhood locations across Pierce County, including at the Children’s Museum at JBLM, making it more accessible for children and caregivers to attend any session that is most convenient to them.
No payment or fee is ever required to attend Play to Learn. Every child and caregiver is welcome to attend any Play to Learn session that is closest to them. JBLM is only accessible to children and caregivers with access to the base.
Building Community
Friendships and a sense of community is formed with each Play to Learn session. It acts as a space for children and adults to socialize and communicate about shared experiences. This is common with recurring individuals. Children can gain the understanding of what friendship is and how to interact with one another.
Play to Learn encourages everyone to learn together. Caregivers have the chance to learn from and with one another in a supportive environment. Friendships can form between caregivers as well!
Play Now!
One of Greentrike’s goals is to advocate for equitable access to playful experiences. Play to Learn is offered at numerous community locations across Pierce County.
Play to Learn would love to see you at the next playtime! No registration is required for most classes. For more information on classes and locations, please visit Greentrike’s Play to Learn calendar or visit Greentrike.org.
