Ribbon Cutting for Nature-Based Play Space at the Holly
We would love to see you there to celebrate the building of the first nature based playspace in a Saint Paul park! Where: Holly Tot Lot
When: Monday Oct 217 4:30-5:30pm
In any environment, both the degree of inventiveness and creativity, and the possibility of discovery, are directly proportional to the number and kind of variables in it.” Simon Nicholson
In the fall of 2023, Big Wonder Child Care’s director, Celeste Finn, connected with the Ramsey Hill Association (RHA) to build community in her center’s new neighborhood. She shared her dream of incorporating more nature-based play at the beloved neighborhood pocket park, the Holly Tot Lot. RHA liked the idea and agreed to assist! Celeste reached out to the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation with a proposal, and after multiple site visits, revisions to the site plan, contractor estimates, and securing insurance, the nature playscape was built! Our goals are to create a natural playscape that sparks wonder, creativity, and innovation in children; a place where children feel inspired and in a community with the natural world, and, an area where children can manipulate the environment to develop problem-solving, communication, and engineering skills through collaborative building with friends.
Core element of the Natre Play Area
Ability to manipulate materials and engage gross motor and large muscle groups.
An artful, dramatic play space may include small forts, a mud kitchen, and/or community art.
Built through Partnership.
Neighbors were invited to contribute their hopes and concerns during the design phase. Parks and Recreation reviewed and approved all aspects of the plan. The RHA sought city support and supplied generous funding. Big Wonder Child Care designed, installed, and agreed to maintain the nature play space. This truly has been a collective effort!
What is installed is the initial phase. Depending on community feedback, children’s reaction to the materials, and funding options, an additional phase may be incorporated to include a music wall, a large nature log, an additional fort, benches, and/or a space for collaborative art.
Continued Participation: Big Wonder would love your thoughts and feedback. Reach out to their executive director at: celeste@bigwonder.org with ideas, suggestions and concerns.