Waldorf-Inspired · Takoma Park
The Hilltop Playgarden
Where young children grow, gently — through play, nature, and the rhythm of the days
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Where young children grow, gently — through play, nature, and the rhythm of the days
A small, home-like program where the days breathe gently — guided by the rhythms of nature and the seasons.
The Hilltop Playgarden is a nature- and play-based program in Takoma Park, inspired and guided by Waldorf education principles. We believe a home-like setting and purposeful, rhythmic daily and weekly activities are essential for the healthy development of young children.
To support the whole family, we offer parent educational evenings, workshops, and festivals throughout the school year.
Young children learn primarily through play and their innate ability to imitate all that surrounds them. Our program creates a safe, nature-infused, unhurried environment to play, learn, and grow — both indoors and out.
Four gentle commitments that shape every day at the Playgarden.
Daily outdoor play in our garden, with weekly hikes in Sligo Creek Park — come rain or shine, through every season.
A balanced flow of free play and guided activities, enriched with stories, songs, and time in nature.
A focus on cooperation, empathy, and meaningful roles within our small community, where each child is known.
Healthy, homemade snacks and lunches every day, prepared with care as part of our rhythm together.
From feeding the rabbits to tending the garden, children learn gentleness and responsibility by caring for the small lives around them — a quiet, daily lesson in empathy.
The day breathes — gathering in for quiet, focused moments, then opening out into active play and the wide outdoors.
Each day carries its own gentle work, returning week after week — for repetition gives children a deep sense of security.
"Jenia's program at Hilltop is spectacular. Our son blossomed in her thoughtful care — the love and dedication each child receives is incredible. We are forever grateful he could start his school journey in such a warm, creative, loving environment."
— Maria C., Hilltop parent
Jenia holds an MSc in Psychology and has worked with young children — including those with special needs — for over fifteen years. A certified LifeWays Early Childhood Educator and mother of three (Jakob, Simon, and Lea), she loves spending time outdoors with her family, cooking big meals for friends, and being creative.
We require a minimum of 2 full or 3 half days, so each child can settle into the rhythm in an unhurried way.
| Program | 2 days | 3 days | 4 days | 5 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Half Day 9am – 1pm | — | $950 | $1,200 | $1,450 |
| Full Day 9am – 3pm | $950 | $1,350 | $1,750 | $2,100 |
Material Fee: $100 / year · Following the Maryland school calendar, we run September to early June, with summer camps June through August.
We warmly welcome children and families of all backgrounds, races, and identities. Please reach out with any questions you may have.