Badlands playspace switches gears, offers in-person enrichment program

The staff at Badlands has been working on a plan to reopen to the community in a safe and proactive capacity. With many local schools moving to all-virtual learning, they have recognized the need for a safe alternative to in-person school this fall and have designed a new program to support children’s social, emotional, and educational needs. The American Academy of Pediatrics “Guidance for School Re-Entry” says, “the importance of in-person learning is well-documented, and there is already evidence of the negative impacts on students because of school closures in the spring of 2020″. Modeling their guidance, CDC’s recommendations as well as extended counsel from local physicians, they are launching the Badlands Enrichment Program to begin August 31st, 2020. 

The Badlands Enrichment Program is an in-person, limited enrollment program geared towards first through eighth-graders already enrolled in virtual school. The goal is to provide a safe learning environment with support in digital studies, vital social interactions, and mindful play. While there are no perfect choices and every choice comes with some unavoidable risk, we feel that this is a strong option for families who need support for their children in a highly personalized setting.

Children will be set in small groups with a dedicated leader, specially trained in hygiene procedures and childcare. Each day will include individual online class support and structured activities like meditation, yoga, science experiments, and outdoor play. The limited enrollment will allow no more than 25% of the building’s occupancy at all times. Your children’s safety is their highest priority and rigorous hygiene standards will be practiced. The facility is 35,000 square foot and is uniquely suited to allow for proper social distancing and they also have a specialized air filtration system for proper ventilation.

The enrichment program follows Montgomery County Public School dates and runs from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. To learn more about the features of the program please click here. 

In support of the community, a portion of each enrollment in the Badlands Enrichment Program will go toward their Learning and Activity Kits Initiative, developed in cooperation with the Council for Advocacy and Policy Solutions and the The Blair Family Foundation, launched earlier this Spring.

To view pricing and register please click here. Email for more info or contact at or 240-599-5500.