Village Playgarden Summer Camp 2026: Which Program Is Right for Your Child?
Summer at Village Playgarden is a special time of year, filled with nature, creativity, and joyful outdoor play. For Summer 2026, we are offering two distinct camp experiences, each designed to meet children at different stages of development.
Whether your child is just beginning their journey or ready for more adventure, this guide will help you choose the program that feels right.
Summer in the Garden (Ages 2.5–6)
Summer in the Garden (Ages 2.5–6)
A gentle, nurturing summer rooted in rhythm and imagination
Summer in the Garden is designed for younger children who thrive in a warm, predictable, and play-based environment. The days follow a gentle rhythm that helps children feel secure, while still allowing plenty of space for creativity and exploration.
Each day may include:
Arts and crafts and imaginative play
Songs, movement, and story circle
Hours of outdoor play in the garden
Nature walks and visits to the LA Arboretum
Water play on warm summer days
This program is especially well-suited for:
First-time campers
Younger children easing into group settings
Children who benefit from a calm, consistent daily rhythm
It’s a joyful and nourishing way for children to experience summer, held in the loving care of experienced teachers.
Mountainside Summer Camp
An adventurous outdoor experience for older children
Mountainside Summer Camp offers a more expansive and adventurous experience for children who are ready to explore beyond the garden.
Here, children spend their days immersed in nature, walking, observing, and engaging with the environment in a more dynamic and independent way. The experience encourages confidence, resilience, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
This program is ideal for children who:
Are ready for more physical activity and exploration
Enjoy being outdoors for extended periods
Are building independence and confidence
Thrive in a more adventurous, open-ended environment
Mountainside invites children to stretch, grow, and discover what they are capable of, all within a supportive and caring community.
How to Choose the Right Camp
If you’re deciding between the two, here are a few helpful guidelines:
Age & Stage
Ages 2.5–6 → Summer in the Garden
Older children ready for more independence → Mountainside
Personality
Nurturing, imaginative, comfort-oriented → Garden
Curious, active, adventure-seeking → Mountainside
Experience Level
First-time camp experience → Garden
Ready for a new challenge → Mountainside
Daily Rhythm
Gentle, predictable, and structured → Garden
Expansive, exploratory, and dynamic → Mountainside
A Shared Foundation
While each program offers a different experience, both are rooted in what makes Village Playgarden unique:
A deep connection to nature
Waldorf-inspired play and creativity
Caring, experienced teachers
A strong sense of community
No matter which path you choose, your child will be supported in a space designed for growth, joy, and meaningful summer experiences.
Now Enrolling for Summer 2026
Our summer programs run from June 15 through August 21, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with flexible enrollment options:
3-day, 4-day, or 5-day schedules
Two-week minimum enrollment
Spots are limited and begin to fill quickly in the spring.
If you have questions or would like help deciding which program is the best fit, we’re here to help.
