Playgroups for Toddlers
Playgroup in the Wild – ages 0 to 4
Winter 2024 Session – Click here to Register
Winter 2024
– Thursdays –
Jan 11, 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15, 29, Mar 14 & 21
(No Class Feb 22 & Mar 7) – 9 classes total
$22 a class X 9 = $198
– Friday –
Jan 12, 19, 26, Feb 2, 9, 16, 30, Mar 15 & 22
(No Class Feb 23 & Mar 8) – 9 classes total
$22 a class X 9 = $198
*Please note* Younger siblings who are non-walkers and can be worn in a carrier are free to join.
Playgroup Waitlist – Sign-Up Here
Families on the waitlist will be contacted after current families are given a chance to re-enroll and before sessions are opened up to the public.
Questions? Contact Jenn at jenn.zielinski@urbanprairie.org or 312.858.4562.

Playgroup in the Wild will feature unnoticed and tucked-away natural surroundings located right in our great city, such as:
- North Park Village/Walking Stick Woods
- LaBagh Woods
- Palmisano Park
- Humboldt Park Lagoon
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
- Garfield Park Conservatory

Inspired by Scandinavian Forest School education, Playgroup in the Wild seeks to address the “Nature Deficit Disorder” phenomenon by exposing young children to movement, activities, and play, primarily in nature. This program will inspire children’s imaginations through the exploration of beautiful, wild environments.
Playgroup in the Wild is a forest classroom experience with the Waldorf morning circle and snack.
- Classes run from September to June, with selective Summer sessions.
- Classes meet on Thursdays and Fridays between 9:30-11:00 am.
- If you need a discount, please contact jenn.zielinski@urbanprairie.org.
For more class registration information, contact Jenn Zielinski at jenn.zielinski@urbanprairie.org.

Lead teacher Erica Moriarty will lead families in exploring local forests and parks, building stick houses, making crafts of natural materials, and gathering for snack and circle time in an outdoor Waldorf class experience. By layering up into appropriate clothing (including coats, rain, and snow pants, when needed) to play outside–no matter the weather – children will really get to explore nature. The more we reconnect our children with nature, the more they will value the natural environment and develop their minds and bodies through play. As parents/guardians/caretakers, this program provides an opportunity to meet and share experiences with others in a fun and supportive environment.