What is an invitation to play?
An invitation to play is a small, thoughtfully arranged scene, such as tea set for two, hens waiting to be fed or paints laid out beside a fresh sheet of paper. It takes the first step for your child. Instead of dumping a bin, she steps into a story that's already started. Kids play longer, more independently and more imaginatively when play is set up this way.
Our play stations
- The kitchen. Play kitchens styled with bakery cases, tea sets, pretend food and a stocked pantry.
- The little farm. A barn, animals, fences, a felt pond and a sensory "field" to plow.
- The market. A grocery or flower stand with crates of produce, a till and pretend money.
- The art studio. A paper roll, paint pots and supplies at her height, ready for making.
- The reading nook. Canopies, cushions, warm lights and books facing out so covers do the inviting.
Refreshed with the seasons
We can change stations with the seasons, like a pumpkin patch at the farm stand, Valentine's tea in the kitchen or a winter village in the small-world tray. Stations can be booked on their own or added to playroom organization, playroom design or Christmas decorating.