Resources
Discover the Principles of Pure Play
Websites
Navigation Play is a 501(c)(3) organization in Williamsburg, IA, dedicated to putting children back in charge of their own play. Rooted in the principles of Playwork and imaginative exploration, they offer family events, kids’ camps, and community education on the importance of play. Their programs encourage child-led, unstructured experiences where kids make their own choices, take risks, and learn through creativity and connection. Navigation Play believes play is essential for everyone and works to create inclusive, welcoming spaces where all families can say “yes” to play.
The US Play Coalition is a partnership to promote the value of play throughout life. We are an international network of individuals and organizations that recognize play as a valuable and necessary part of a healthy and productive life. Our membership is diverse – including educators, parents, physicians, health scientists, park and recreation professionals, psychologists, landscape architects and many more. Membership is free, and simply requires a declaration of shared commitment to the value of play.
OPAL – Outdoor Play And Learning
OPAL is a UK- based CIC (Community Interest Company) dedicated to improving quality of primary school play periods in order to improve learning, engagement, health, creativity, and self-esteem.
Rooted in Play is a Tampa-based organization dedicated to ensuring all children have regular access to child-led, outdoor play. Through pop-up play experiences, neighborhood street play, and community resources, they promote environments that give kids time and space to explore freely. Serving families, educators, and children of all ages in the Tampa Bay area, Rooted in Play champions the belief that play, learning, and healthy development go hand in hand — working to make play the default, not the backup, in every child’s day.
For over 30 years, this expert in natural outdoor play environments has been inspiring families and educators to connect children with the real world — sky, trees, grass, water, sand, and mud. Their playscape designs embrace creativity and adventure through elements like hills, gardens, pathways, loose parts, and even chickens! Author of Adventures in Risky Play: What is Your Yes? and other books on play, they also offer professional development workshops and keynotes focused on natural playscapes and the importance of saying “yes” to risky play.
The Early Childhood Nerd – Heather Bernt-Santy
Heather Bernt-Santy, also known as That Early Childhood Nerd, is a speaker, podcast host, and early childhood professional with over 30 years of experience working with children, families, and caregivers. She is a strong advocate for children’s right to play and promotes the science behind play-based learning.
Books
Here is a collection of books focused on our mission of play.
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