At Play With Me, there's a dining table meant for both adults and children to share. We designed this space hoping that when you visit, you can settle into the most comfortable spot— a place where you can easily watch your children play while also giving yourself room to relax and simply be. At this generous table, you might enjoy a fragrant cup of tea, read something you love—paper or digital— or simply let the natural light and shadows from outside ease the tension you carry from daily life. If you happen to meet other families visiting at the same time, perhaps you can exchange thoughts on parenting, on life, on the different ways we imagine our days. In the beautiful yet demanding journey of raising children, it's good to meet others who share similar paths— to connect, to share different visions of what life can be. The step stool in the photo helps children under 4 easily reach their drinks on the table. It lets them feel in control of their environment, not just immersed in play, but also practicing independence and capability. This step stool is over 15 years old now. We had it custom-made back when we lived in a tiny apartment, to help little Rapunzel train the muscles and skills needed to climb stairs. She'd go up and down, tuck herself inside for a sense of security, and as she grew older, curl up in there to read picture books or snack. She'd use the steps as a stage for her forest animal theater performances. From holding on to climb each step, to pushing the stool around wherever she needed— to wash her hands, eat her meals, reach for things— this step stool grew with her. With it by her side, adult-sized furniture was no longer an obstacle. Through everyday practice, she discovered the charm of autonomy and ease 😉
