Cold Hands, Open Hearts is a reflection on why Ocean State Kids chooses to remain outdoors through every season—especially winter. When the world feels quieter and colder, children discover resilience, regulation, and confidence through real experience. This piece explores how layered clothing, shared courage, and steady community turn winter into a place of belonging, growth, and deep connection—for both children and the adults walking beside them.

After eight years as a public school special education teacher, Alex made the courageous decision to step away from the traditional classroom to create something more meaningful — for herself, her daughter, and the next generation of learners. She is now leading the new Forest Ferns Co-op, a preschool homeschool program rooted in nature-based education, all while taking her Outdoor Classroom Teacher Certification.

The Cool Mom Concierge, one of our very own creative OSK mamas, provides you with ingredients and instruction on making these cute halloween treats.

Amid fresh flowers, apple pie, and a circle of parents who understand, we rediscovered the wild wonder of childhood — and the ways Ocean State Kids continues to grow, evolve, and rise with every season.

Adam’s Farm offers a rich, hands-on educational experience to explore nature, engage with animals, and push boundaries with risky play.

It will be a few years until my son asks me this question, but these are the things that keep me up at night.