Aspen Grove, an early childhood education center in Philadelphia, is making waves with its play-based learning approach, emphasizing the importance of fostering a love for learning while preserving the magic of childhood.

In a recent interview, Sharon Jayakumar, the co-founder of Aspen Grove, and Emma Ditnes, a dedicated pre-K teacher, shared insights into the school’s philosophy and daily operations. Founded out of a personal need for high-quality early education, Aspen Grove was built on the belief that children are capable and curious learners who thrive in an environment that nurtures their natural development.

“We value the importance of being little,” Sharon explained, referencing a philosophy inspired by Erica Christakis’ book The Importance of Being Little. “It’s about protecting and nurturing childhood by learning pre-academic skills through play rather than rushing children into traditional academics prematurely.”

The school follows a Reggio-inspired model, which places children at the center of their learning experiences. Teachers aren’t instructors, rather they are guides fostering an environment where curiosity leads the way.

A Vision Rooted in Personal Experience

The inspiration behind Aspen Grove came from Sharon’s own experience as a working mother searching for the right environment for her child. “As I toured schools across Philadelphia, I realized that many lacked key elements that I wanted—a spacious, well-lit environment, an emphasis on movement, and a focus on outdoor exploration,” she explained. Facing lengthy waitlists at the very few schools that meet these needs, she took matters into her own hands.

Sharon left her corporate career to create a high-quality, nature-integrated learning space for young children. “What started as a need for my own child became a mission to serve families across Philadelphia,” she said. Today, Aspen Grove continues to thrive, maintaining its commitment to high standards and a child-first philosophy.

The Power of Play-Based Learning in Building Future Academic Skills

A core principle of Aspen Grove’s curriculum is that play is not just a leisure activity but an essential element of cognitive and emotional development. “One common misconception is that play-based learning simply means having fun,” Emma explained. “But true play involves deep engagement, problem-solving, and creativity. Play is synonymous with learning.”

Emma referenced the work of Dr. Peter Gray, a Boston College psychologist known for his research on play, noting that self-directed play fosters independence, flexible thinking, and a natural curiosity.

One of the many examples of this philosophy in action that Emma recalled involved her students’ spontaneous fascination with battery-operated tea lights in their classroom. Their newfound interest evolved into a week-long exploration of light, shadows, and refraction, with teachers setting up invitations to play that expanded their discoveries.

“This is how we guide children—we observe their interests and create opportunities for deeper learning, rather than dictating lessons from a top-down approach,” Emma said.

A Day at Aspen Grove: Learning with Hands, Heads and Hearts 

Aspen Grove operates year-round from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, ensuring continuity in children’s routines and learning. A typical day balances structured and unstructured play, outdoor exploration, and integrated learning experiences.

Mornings begin with children arriving at staggered times, participating in independent or teacher-guided activities based on their interests. Morning circles are a key part of the day, where children acknowledge one another, discuss plans, and set intentions.

Outdoor time is an essential piece of the curriculum, reinforcing the school’s urban nature-based identity. “We take children outside every single day, within regulations, whether it’s a light drizzle or a snowy afternoon,” Sharon explained. “It’s important for city kids to experience nature intentionally.” Activities include free play, guided observations of city life, and hands-on STEM experiences led by guest educators like “Nature Jack,” who engages children in environmental learning.

The learning continues through music, arts, and literacy programs, including a partnership with Settlement Music School, where children explore rhythm, melody, and movement. Field trips to the Academy of Music, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Magic Gardens further enrich their experiences.

Afternoon activities incorporate science, math, and social development in subtle, organic ways. “Even snack time is a learning opportunity,” Emma noted. “Children practice communication skills and engage in social storytelling, all of which develop language and social-emotional intelligence.”

Preparing Children for Kindergarten and Beyond

Aspen Grove’s model prepares children for kindergarten by emphasizing independence, problem-solving, and a love for learning, rather than rote memorization or early academic pressure. “Studies show that children pushed into academic learning too early often experience burnout by fifth grade,” Emma shared. “We focus on building a strong social-emotional foundation, because that is what truly sets the stage for lifelong success.”

This approach aligns with what most kindergarten programs hope to expand upon for their incoming students:

• The ability to work independently and in groups
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Respect for materials and their learning environment
• Confidence and enthusiasm for learning

“We’ve had parents tour our school and tell us, ‘I wish I could go back in time and start my journey in a place like this,’” Sharon said.

Enrollment and Future Growth

Aspen Grove is currently in its enrollment season, with limited spots available for the upcoming year. The school welcomes families seeking a nurturing, play-based learning environment that values childhood as a time of curiosity and exploration.

Sharon and her team continue to refine their approach, ensuring that Aspen Grove remains at the forefront of early childhood education.“Our guiding principle is simple,” she said. “We provide to all children the quality of education we want for our own children.”

To learn more about Aspen Grove, schedule a tour or explore their programs at aspengrovephilly.com.

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Photos by Polina Bullman Photography, as seen in the Philadelphia Family Spring Education Guide.

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