Sandpipers at Child & Family Services will celebrate the grand opening of its new outdoor play area on October 21st at 4:45 pm. The upgraded space, made possible by funding from the van Beuren Charitable Foundation and Sandpipers parents, features new equipment and amenities for children of all ages.
The renovations include a brand-new canopy for the yearling play area, providing protection from the elements while allowing children to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play. Students slightly older and a little more mobile can now practice gross motor skills on a new climbing structure. Older children can challenge their gross motor skills on a new climbing structure. Both areas have been outfitted with shock-absorbing rubber flooring for safety.
“The list of the benefits of outdoor play are endless,” said Cali Boimila, Director of Sandpipers. “They include improved mental well-being, enhanced development of physical strength, and exposure to vitamin D through the sun. Additionally, playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.”
Sandpipers at Child & Family educates and cares for children from six weeks old through five years. The center also recently opened two new Pre-K classrooms in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Education, offering free Pre-K to Middletown residents and surrounding communities. In addition to the Pre-K program, Child & Family operates Community Centers in both Middletown and Providence, a residential home for youth in Aquidneck Island, Sandpipers Early Learning Center in Middletown, a Supportive Housing program for homeless parent(s) and their children, Family Preservation Programs, Case Management Services for Older Adults, Independent Living Programs, Foster Care and more.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
