Otto took to the skies—literally—on his first discovery flight in a vintage 1949 Stinson. Otto’s enthusiasm lit up the sky, as Barry Prizant reminds us in Uniquely Human, these passions aren’t quirks—they’re lifelines—and for this little boy flight isn’t just an enthusiasm—it’s belonging.

Ocean State Kids is deeply grateful to Sofia Sinclair and her family’s restaurant, YaiYai’s Cafe in Middletown, RI, for their generous donation. Sofia, an inspiring mother, entrepreneur, and longtime supporter, embodies wholehearted wellness and community. Her thoughtful gift fuels our mission, reminding us that the greatest growth often comes from friendship, shared values, and the courage to start fresh—from scratch.

What began with a 3:30 a.m. rocket launch turned into a day of quiet firsts and unexpected magic. From patient instructions to shadow goodbyes, from skydiving airplane mechanics to surprise playdates with puppy love —my neurodivergent son let the world in, one small moment at a time. And just when I thought the day had given us everything—it ended with an orange soda kiss that reminded me why I keep going.

Whether or not I felt ready, today felt like a grand, disorienting, deeply personal welcome into the next chapter of my journey—a gesture too loud to ignore.

This space isn’t just about play—it’s about presence. It’s about coming back to ourselves. The forest now holds a new kind of magic—one where both child and parent are seen, heard, and held.

Moments like this allow children to study the world with the depth and intensity they crave. And they provide children with a sense of belonging. It was another reminder that when kids are trusted to lead, they’ll take flight. Sometimes literally.

Last night was our first-ever Nature Guardian meeting: a gathering of the most passionate, invested, wildly brave parents who have shaped Ocean State Kids into what it is today.

A gentle reminder that connection doesn’t always come from fixing or forcing. Sometimes, it comes from noticing. Slowing. Trusting that the world will offer just what your child needs, if you stay curious enough to look for it.

WILD by Design is an outdoor child development program rooted in strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming environments. It’s a space where all children—regardless of ability—can thrive through sensory-rich play. But it’s not just for kids. It’s also for the parents. Because in this model, we provide access to real professionals: OTs, SLPs, counselors—people who walk alongside families, offering real tools, strategies, and encouragement.

A photo of Otto with a wooden train and The Little Engine That Could hit me—because in so many ways, he is that train.

One of our recent activities, Hammer Ice Smash, turned into a fantastic sensory experience that captivated our group for over an hour!

From building confidence to finding moments of zen, these programs offer a whole new perspective on parenting and personal growth.

A comprehensive guide to winter gear for families participating in the Ocean State Kids Outdoor Learning & Nature Play Programs.

While this isn’t a bad thing, it is a new journey for us, one that requires more of my care and attention.

Outdoor Nature Art activities invites children to delve into their feelings while engaging with the natural world around them.

Celebrating one year of empowering families to embrace the beauty of childhood through outdoor learning and nature play.

Preserving the joy and innocence of childhood through outdoor learning and nature play in Little Compton, Rhode Island.

A True Story of Finding Purpose in Motherhood & A Community Event That Raise Over $11,000 for Outdoor Education