The New Type of Playgroup Sweeping the Gorge - Where Kids Are in Charge!?
By Robin Denning
The Dalles, Ore. February 20, 2024 — It’s a Tuesday, and today Playgroup is nestled in the heart of Hood River Alliance Church on Montello, and something truly magical is happening.
Playgroup Friends Enjoying a cart on the gym floor.
It was a foggy morning when I spotted the sight of the Play and Learn Transit Van in the church parking lot promising something unique. Inside, a lovely gym transforms into a world of exploration and freedom, embodying a gentle, nurturing atmosphere that's instantly infectious. This isn't your typical playgroup; it's a space where children lead the way, and adults happily follow.
Play Group Poster for The Dalles Hood River
The lack of a traditional instructor directing activities is the first clue you're in for something different. Instead, children are immersed in play, choosing their activities, with parents and caregivers engaged in a supportive and playful partnership. It's a space that feels caring and easy, where even a visitor, accustomed to the company of a pet rather than children, finds comfort and joy in simple interactions like identifying animals on a giant jigsaw puzzle.
DeeAnn Bohn, the Program Coordinator who has a rich career in early learning programs across the gorge, orchestrates this symphony of play. Known for her angelic patience and understanding of young minds, DeeAnn is akin to a child whisperer, creating an environment where learning through play is not just encouraged but celebrated.
"This playgroup is a child-directed activity. The child gets to pick, and the adults get to enjoy that learning experience," DeeAnn explains.
She draws a vivid picture of the philosophy behind the playgroup, where children's engagement with something as simple as Play-Doh can open doors to learning math, sensory skills, language, story development, fine motor skills and more.
Patti, a regular attendee with her grandchildren, shares her enthusiasm: "It was a nice way to get out of the house when the weather was bad... They play with almost everything that's out to play."
Left,. DeeAnn Bohn, Program Coodinator and Patti, Local Grandparent.
In addition to play groups, the Play and Learn Program supported by staff members Dani, Peggy, and Samantha, delivers at home learning activities to families across Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam, and Wheeler counties.
”Our bi-monthly activity kits include creative activities and materials which elevate everyday household items into educational play, emphasizing that enriching a child's learning experience doesn't require expensive resources or years of experience,” DeeAnn explained.
Patti added, “I only have these grandkids one day a week, but I have another set of grandkids another day a week, and I’m able to use the activity kits for both the sets of grandkids even though they’re at elementary school. Especially the egg shakers, and the bubbles activities. There’s so much information and ideas, it’s very helpful! If I had my grandkids every day, I’d still have enough to do with them with all these resources.”
Play and Learn Playgroups and the Activity Boxes offered by Pland Learn at Home are a testament to the power of community and the importance of play in child development. Open to all and free to enroll in, these programs embody a spirit of inclusivity and simplicity, ensuring that every child and caregiver can participate without facing barriers.
For those interested in joining this community of play and learning, or to learn more about the program, visit fourriversfamily.org/pals. Play and Learn invites families in Gilliam, Hood River, Sherman, Wasco, and Wheeler Counties to discover a space where children lead, and adults rediscover the joy of learning alongside them.
This press release was written and provided in part through a partnership with Four Rivers Family and Parenting.
