The real risk isn’t that we won’t understand what a child is doing. It’s that we’ll step in too soon and stop it. Learn more about Intrinsic Motivation and ways you can support it.

A personal narrative that reflects on the unseen beginnings and where motherhood, memory, and responsibility quietly intersect with a harsh truth. It explores the discomfort of visibility, the weight many parents carry without naming, and the longing for spaces that ask nothing of us but presence.

My son rarely has meltdowns. Instead, he goes quiet. He internalizes his sadness in ways that are far harder for me to witness than any outburst. This is a reflection on raising a deeply sensitive little boy, on the moments that feel small to adults but enormous to children, and on the work of creating a space where all emotions—especially the quiet ones—are welcome.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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