With Summer just around the corner, many parents of toddlers are considering the exciting question (I know I am) of whether your little one’s ready for their first camp experience. Whether you’re the parent of a very active soon-to-be two year old (like me) or have a repeat camper on your hands, The Play Lab, for children 2.5-4 years of age, and Play Kids, for children 4-8, understand how important finding the right summer camp for your child is. For over a decade we’ve been offering Brooklyn-locals the perfect summer solution – a nurturing, Montessori-based fun-filled summer camp nestled in the heart of McCarren Park. Blending outdoor and indoor activities designed to cultivate well-rounded campers and catering to parents seeking to immerse their children in a dynamic, creative, and enriching camp experience filled with the classes you know and love, our programs are carefully designed around each age group’s specific needs. We even offer a French Language Camp for the next generation of linguaphiles!
The Magic of Early Experiences
Did you know that children's earliest group experiences can shape their social development for years to come? As a former teacher, the educator in me used to cringe when summer approached, knowing my students would soon enter an academic-free zone of over two months — roughly the same amount of time it would take for me to refresh their brains in the fall. Now as a mom, I’m excited about the potential of structured summer activities strongly emphasizing socialization and play.
Research shows that structured play and learning between ages 2-4 can boost confidence, enhance communication skills, and lay the groundwork for future friendships. These early years are when children develop crucial life skills through play – and that's exactly what our summer camp is all about!
What Makes The Play Lab Summer Camp Special?
Picture this: Your little one spending their summer mornings in our beautiful playspace, where every day brings new adventures. From creating colorful masterpieces in art class to discovering the wonders of science, each activity is thoughtfully designed for our youngest campers while they bond with new friends.
Here's what sets us apart:
Small group settings that help even the shyest children bloom
A perfect blend of structured activities based around our Montessori-learning principles, STEM classes, and free play
No pressure about potty training – we welcome children at all developmental stages
Experienced educators who understand the unique needs of young children
Our mix of indoor/outdoor activities, steps from McCarren Park
A Day in the Life of a Play Lab Camper
Every day at camp is a new adventure! Your child might start their morning bouncing in our gym, then explore their creative side in music class or learning about mass while playing with balloons in McCarren Park, then end their day making new friends during outdoor nature walks and splashing through the sprinklers. Our balanced schedule prioritizes:
Active play time for growing bodies
Creative arts for imaginative minds
Music and movement for self-expression
Science exploration for curious souls
Plenty of breaks and snack times for recharging
Flexibility for Modern Families
We understand that every family's schedule is different. That's why we offer:
2-day, 3-day, or 5-day options
Extended stay until 2:30 PM for busy parents
Drop-in days when available
Sibling discounts for families with multiple children
Building Blocks for Future Success
While your child is having the time of their life, they're also developing essential skills of communication through our daily group activities, social-emotional growth through peer interaction, physical development and confidence through active play, cognitive advancement through engaging lessons, creative expression through arts and music, and an overarching sense of curiosity and wonder at the natural world through our science experiments.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
Our 7-week session runs from July 7 through August 22, 2025, and spaces are filling up fast! Whether your child is an outgoing explorer or a careful observer, our wonderful team ensures every camper finds their place to shine. Our limited classes ensure each child will have an individualized experience every time they step inside our doors.
Don't miss out on giving your child the gift of an amazing first camp experience. Come join our Play Lab family this summer!
Want to learn more or schedule a visit? Contact us today – we'd love to show you around our space and answer any questions about our summer program.
Comments