The Children at Play Network at Bernheim Forest
September 18, 2026
A growing partnership between the Children at Play Network (CAPN) at Bernheim Forest and the Early Childhood Research Center (ECRC) is redefining how we understand, value and support nature-based play. Built on a shared vision for early childhood development, this collaboration pairs CAPN’s groundbreaking play leadership with ECRC’s research expertise to explore how children connect with the natural world.
At the heart of this partnership is the Playcosystem natural playscape, a dynamic 17-acre environment designed as a living lab. Beyond serving as a vibrant space for children to build, climb and imagine, Playcosystem functions as a true "place for discovery" for both children and researchers. While young explorers test their limits, collaborate, and navigate natural terrain, researchers gain a front-row seat to the unfolding dynamics of child-directed play, physical risk-taking, and environmental stewardship.
A prime example of this collaboration in action is Echoes of the Playcosystem, a longitudinal study led by principal investigator Jon Lee. Over 26 months, the study documents the dynamic interplay between human activity and landscape evolution, tracking how soil, plants and structures shift alongside child interactions, vocal soundscapes and spatial navigation.
Driven by the vision of key leaders like Claude Stephens (Director of CAPN), Jenny Gardner (Play Environments Manager), and Zach Bramel (Playcosystem Coordinator), this initiative merges design, outdoor play facilitation, and academic inquiry. Together with ECRC researchers, they are transforming Playcosystem into an inspiring engine of discovery, generating actionable insights that will shape the future of natural play environments, early childhood education, and ecological design for years to come.
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