New program is located at the organization’s new headquarters garden 

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — One Cool Earth is introducing its new play-based garden enrichment program called the Play Grove. The new program is located at the organization’s new headquarters garden at the San Luis Obispo Jewish Community Center’s 10-acre site near the base of Bishop’s Peak. The outdoor learning space features a large tent for rainy day activities, garden beds for hands-on learning, a beautiful cob oven, and an outdoor kitchen area.

The Play Grove enrichment program will launch in the fall of 2024 for children from 3 to 5 years old. As an extension of One Cool Earth’s seasoned learning model, the program will allow children to grow through outdoor play and exploration in a beautiful garden setting. By incorporating outdoor garden-based activities, children will drive their personal learning and begin to develop a deep connection to the natural world. The program will also prepare them for the next step in their learning journey.

Alongside enthusiastic playworkers, young children will engage in free play, games, intentional curriculum, art, and projects infused with laughter, curiosity, and excitement. With a low student-to-playworker ratio of 1:5, all Play Grove students will receive guided care and attention as they engage with the outdoors. The playworkers will introduce students to gardening, harvesting, preserving, seed saving, and preparing fruits and veggies, similar to the school-age One Cool Earth curriculum. Serving as facilitators and co-learners, playworkers will be trained in early childhood education skills and will be CPR and mandated reporter certified for the students’ safety and wellness.

More information regarding Play Grove and its enrollment can be found at onecoolearth.org/play-grove. The enrollment period will begin on April 1, and the program is set to start this fall. 

About One Cool Earth

One Cool Earth is a SLO County nonprofit that partners with 25 local schools to teach science education in outdoor learning laboratories. Their mission is to create thriving school gardens that grow happy, healthy, and smart youth across the Central Coast. The community can connect with One Cool Earth at onecoolearth.org and sign up for newsletters for more information.

Feature Image: One Cool Earth’s Play Grove enrichment program will launch in the fall of 2024 for children from ages 3-5 at the organization’s new headquarters garden at the San Luis Obispo Jewish Community Center’s 10-acre site near the base of Bishop’s Peak. Contributed Photo