Highland Plaza United Methodist Preschool

In September of 2022, plans were underway for a very special place in the front yard of our preschool to be named Plaza Park. We envisioned a space that would be shared by all of our children and their families, giving it a sense of community and respite that the word ‘Park’ implies. We wanted to include play elements, while also bearing in mind that it is the front yard of our preschool and makes the first impression for passers by. We want it to look artful, sculptural, beautiful, and unexpected, being educational through its nature-based design, inviting active play, while not at all resembling a traditional playground. We desired to make this a space where all areas of play encouraged inquiry, discovery, and reflection for our children.

In March of 2024, Plaza Park was unveiled and our vision for the space became reality with the implementation of an active play area on one end, an adult and child picnic area, and a pathway of three interlocking circles with contrabase chimes, sitting boulders and two apple trees. The space has fulfilled its purpose of being a place to gather and build community.

On any given day after school, Plaza Park is filled with the sounds of laughter and the sight of exploration and discovery while the bonds of friendship are deepened between both parents and children.

We are currently in the process of completing a giant 10 foot nature megaphone on our hiking trails to amplify the sounds of nature as well as provide a space for sound exploration and nature journaling. Stay tuned for a pictorial reveal with next years recertification!