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.

When my son Otto slips into the water, he becomes an octopus—fearless, curious, and completely himself. Today, in a pool far bigger than our own, he found courage, friendship, and a sense of belonging that made him weightless in every way that matters.

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.

Learn more about the Westerly Wildflowers, Nurture The Mother's Group Circle, and the Wahaneeta Preserve.

Let us normalize showcasing the beauty of fathers in action, and the immeasurable gift they bring to a child’s life.

But here’s what I’ve come to believe: we don’t lose ourselves in motherhood—we evolve. Motherhood doesn’t erase who we are; it chisels away what isn’t needed and slowly reveals who we were meant to become all along.

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.

an invitation to slow down and reconnect with the mothers of the Ocean State Kids community, once a month.

Musical performance is one of the most dynamic ways to engage a child’s sensory system.

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.

Discovering Ocean State Kids opened my eyes to a world of parents embracing the same lifestyle.

Ocean State Kids is one of 1,380 organizations across North America participating in the Neighborhood Forest 16th Annual Free Tree Program.

An incredible morning exploring the vibrant life of a working farm with the Owl Adventure Club.

A seaside adventure to Jamestown, where our mission was simple yet exhilarating—harvesting clams at low tide, secretly thrilled for dinner.

Community heals. Embracing Otto's unique brilliance taught us that belonging isn't about fitting in—it's about being truly seen.

We’ve learned something I wish I had known sooner; we are allowed to go at our own pace—every day, every session, every season.

I see a boy who is full of energy, risk, creativity, and heart—this little boy is so WILD – he is WILD by design.

Perfect for tiny hands and big imaginations. While we might not be nest-building experts, we sure know how to tangle up some fun!

Though I am stepping down from leadership, I eagerly look forward to joining you at future meetups across Rhode Island.

Ocean State Kids is partnering with Neighborhood Forest to inspire youth environmentalism and help green our community!

Owl Adventure Clubs moves into "The Barn" with South County Land Trust and Sarah Clarke's outdoor program overview looks ENCHANTING!