Building Community Step By Step

Hey, Play Advocate.

This month I am focusing on what I believe to be the fundamental, baseline component to facilitating a major movement in early childhood education: Community.

Each week during the month of April, I will share with you one of the most influential ways I have built a community over the years at my in-person nature play program. Every year I see the influence of these things grow more and more. Please, share with me which of these was helpful, or additional thoughts on building a community that has worked for you! We are a hive mind, and sharing is beneficial for everyone.

Photo Credit: Kristen RB Peterson & Co., The Play Retreat 2023

👌 Community Building Tip #2

Host monthly/seasonal potlucks.

At our program, we host seasonal potlucks, rain or shine. Families bring a dish to share, a snack to roast on an open fire, and an open heart to connect with one another. The only prep we do on our end is to build/set/tend a fire for roasting snacks and tasty treats. (You know there are LOTS of marshmallows to be had during these get-togethers). 

Families bring their own dishes/cups and utensils which makes for a speedy cleanup and enjoyable time for all! It was always so stressful to know that after gatherings at programs passed, we staff would have to stay at least another hour to clean, do dishes, and put away tables, chairs, etc. YUCK!

This is a no-fuss occasion and makes the connection with one another the main event! Potlucks are held at the end of the day on the last day of programming for the week which for us is on Thursdays. We try to plan them right before a break as a positive and warm send-off and celebration of the approaching season. Potlucks run about two hours on average.

Lifelong Learning Corner: a place for professional development.

Check out Kristen RB Peterson's new Play Market. This is a one-stop shop (that is growing over time) that offers play-based courses from $0 to $47 that will support the renegade within you. From risky play to nature play to read aloud to story acting, no doubt there is a course for you on The Play Market.