On any given week, you can find Ellowyn right where she wants to be — laughing, exploring and fully immersed in play at the Play to Learn program through Partnership for Children of the Foothills.
For Ellowyn, it’s more than just a playgroup. It’s her favorite place of the week.
“Play to Learn is her favorite place to be all week,” her mom shared. “She looks forward to it, talks about her friends, and comes home so proud of what she’s made and done.”
And it doesn’t take long to see why.
From the moment she arrives, Ellowyn jumps into hands-on activities designed to spark imagination and curiosity. One week, she might be carefully shaping gingerbread people out of play clay, focused and proud as she adds each tiny detail. Another week, she’s teaming up with new friends to redesign an obstacle course — climbing, balancing and problem-solving along the way.
Every activity invites creativity. Every station encourages exploration. And every moment is rooted in learning through play.
But what makes Play to Learn especially meaningful isn’t just what children are doing. It’s how they’re growing.
“Play is how young children learn best,” said Kay Dawkins, Play to Learn facilitator. “When children like Ellowyn are given the space to explore, create and interact with others, they’re building confidence, developing social skills and laying the foundation for lifelong learning.”
That growth happens naturally in a space that feels safe, welcoming and fun for both children and parents.
Through Play to Learn, Ellowyn has found friendships. She’s discovered new ways to express herself. And she’s building skills she’ll carry with her into school and beyond — all while doing what she loves most: playing.
As the program continues to grow, Play to Learn now offers three groups that meet once a week, creating even more opportunities for families across Polk and Rutherford counties to experience the impact.
For families like Ellowyn’s, Play to Learn has become a rhythm they cherish — a place where learning feels like joy, friendships come easily and each week brings something new to discover.
To learn more about Play to Learn or find a group near you, visit www.PFCFoothills.org.
About Partnership for Children of the Foothills
With support from the NC Smart Start Initiative, Partnership for Children of the Foothills provides programs for children ages birth to 5 and their families in the areas of early care, education and family support. The Partnership works alongside community agencies and service providers to offer creative programs and resources for preschool children, families, licensed child care centers and family child care providers.
For more information, visit PFCFoothills.org.
