On July 18th, the children in our Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program spent a joyful and enriching day at Creekside Park. This field trip was part of our ongoing commitment to providing hands-on, meaningful early childhood experiences that go beyond the classroom. During our visit, the children were fully immersed in outdoor play and nature exploration. They enjoyed splashing in the water, flipping over sticks, collecting leaves, and even discovering the occasional insect. These seemingly simple activities sparked excitement, curiosity, and endless questions—exactly what child-led learning should look like. Thanks to our low 1:5 teacher-to-child ratio, outings like this are not only possible—they’re powerful. With full visibility and attention on every child, we’re able to offer opportunities for what’s known as “risky play” in early childhood education. While the term may sound concerning at first, risky play is an essential part of child development. It allows children to challenge themselves in safe, supervised settings where they learn to assess risk, build resilience, and develop both confidence and independence. Whether it's balancing on logs, navigating uneven terrain, or experimenting with water flow, these moments build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can’t be taught through worksheets or screens. Equally important are the benefits of nature play. Research shows that time in nature supports mental wellness, lowers stress, and improves focus and emotional regulation in young children. It also strengthens language development, social skills, and creativity. At Raising Stars Preschool, we believe that nature is not just a backdrop for learning—it’s an essential part of it. Children who engage with the natural world are more connected, empathetic, and eager to explore. We are proud to offer a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool program that embraces real-world experiences and the natural environment as active partners in education. Our day at Creekside Park was a perfect example of our philosophy in action: children learning through play, exploration, and discovery—guided by caring educators who see each child as capable, curious, and full of potential.