babies at toddlers at the water table

A Safe Place Child Enrichment Center

Our Vision

When children play and learn outdoors, they thrive—and so do their families, communities, and the planet we all share.

We help families and educators find simple, fun ways to play and learn in nearby nature, building confidence, connection, and curiosity along the way. 

About Discover
girl in pink holds up muddy hands
Things to Do
Find ideas and inspiration to help young children play, learn, and grow outdoors.
two children holding hands while walking on a forest trail
Tips & Tools
Use these tips and tools to help you bring more outdoor play and learning into everyday life.
preschool class sittting on a low tree branch
Why Nature Matters
Discover why time outdoors is essential for young children’s growth and learning.
headshot dr. kuo

It is time to take nature seriously as a resource for learning.

Dr. Ming Kuo

Ph.D., Researcher, University of Illinois

Learning Happens Everywhere

preschool class walk on the sidewalk with teachers
toddler sitting and playing in a puddle
Child holds up large gourd with a smile on his face
a small group of children huddle around a tree trunk
two children draw in notebooks near water
a child holds up a feather they found
children explore scales on picnic table in park
nature art on asphalt
children mix sand and water in metal bowls
preschooler using magnifying glass to look at plant roots
children laying in the shape of the letter S
baby touching water in a creek with parent
blowing dandelion seeds into the wind