Welcome to
The Joyful Play Project
Stories of Play
Prompts for Play
Play Together
More Ways to Play
We’re glad you’re here.
The Joyful Play Project
is a resource dedicated to a simple but powerful idea: that some of the best moments of childhood are found in classic games, outdoor adventures, and creative free play.
We strive to be a source of practical, inspiring ideas for hands-on activities that bring joy and stronger family bonds.
In the midst of parenting, it’s easy to lose sight of
JOY.
It’s our goal to create a treasure trove of accessible ideas and tools that help us all stay in that perspective. Our activities are designed to deliver a wealth of educational benefits, from gross and fine motor skills to vital social development, all without requiring a lot of money, time, or extensive preparation.
We provide readily accessible and joyful ideas for classic games, outdoor exploration, and creative play, cultivating a generation that values imagination, active engagement, and the simple joys of childhood.
Creator of the Joyful Play Project
Meet Bethany
I’m a mother of four with a 11-year-old, a 9-year-old, and twin 5-year-olds.
My love of play and activity planning was inspired by my own mother, an educator and mother of four who ran incredible summer programs based on nostalgic games, American Girl dolls, and environmental studies. Her programs, which always had a huge waitlist, were filled with magic—from sleepovers in the school to flashlight tag and historical lessons. My mother’s lessons have inspired me to incorporate timeless games like jacks, marbles, hopscotch, and neighborhood water fights into my own children’s lives.
