A welcoming outdoor garden for connection and playful learning

Visitation Homes

As part of a series of Playful Learning Landscapes created in partnership with HopePHL, the Play Garden at Visitation is a welcoming outdoor installation designed to spark joy, connection, and learning within a safe and nurturing space. Located at the Visitation shelter, it serves as a daily destination for families, supporting everyday moments of play and togetherness.

The Play Garden features seven playful learning zones including sand exploration, an imagination playhouse, music, mindfulness, a Little Library, a playful picnic area, find and seek elements, and active play. Thoughtfully designed to reflect the science of learning, the space encourages caregivers and children to explore together, build vocabulary, practice self-regulation, strengthen problem-solving skills, and foster creativity, communication, confidence, and collaboration.

The Learning Goals

The Play Garden at Visitation supports whole-child development by inviting children and caregivers to learn together across thoughtfully designed play zones. Sand Exploration and Find and Seek elements strengthen critical thinking, encouraging children to observe, compare, experiment, and problem-solve. The Imagination Playhouse and Music zone foster creative innovation and communication, as children engage in role-play, storytelling, rhythm, and collaborative play. The Mindfulness area nurtures confidence and self-regulation, helping children manage emotions, build resilience, and feel secure within a supportive environment.

Together, these features create a welcoming space that promotes joyful learning, meaningful caregiver interaction, and healthy social-emotional growth.

The Team

The Play Garden at Visitation was created through a collaboration between Playful Learning Landscapes, HopePHL, Allen Pierce and students from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art + Architecture, and Lubow Design LLC.