A cozy nook for literacy and play
The Nest
As part of the Literacy Rich Neighborhoods Initiative, The Nest is a welcoming outdoor installation designed to spark storytelling, reading, and imagination within a safe and nurturing space. Located on the historic grounds of Cliveden, it serves as a year-round destination for the community, supporting programs like the Community Summer Reading Camp at Holman Field and broader literacy activities. Shaped like a bird’s nest found in nature, the custom wooden structure includes a Little Free Library, multiple seating areas, colorful I-Spy wildlife elements, story starters, and an interactive audio story station. Surrounded by landscaped grounds, The Nest inspires creativity and connection while linking children to neighborhood stories that build vocabulary, foster empathy, and encourage curiosity, communication, and critical thinking.
The Learning Goals
The Nest strengthens literacy and imagination by inviting children and families to engage with multiple playful learning elements. The Lending Library supports communication as caregivers and children read aloud, share books, and build vocabulary together. The Hidden Figures etched into the tree encourage critical thinking and observation, prompting children to search, compare, and tell stories about what they find. Story Starters spark creative innovation, inspiring children to invent new narratives and practice language in imaginative ways. The Audio Station deepens literacy-rich experiences by engaging children in listening, speaking, and storytelling, expanding opportunities for multimodal learning. Together, these features create a nurturing space that fosters joyful literacy and community connection.
The Team
The Nest was created through a collaboration between Playful Learning Landscapes, Mount Airy Community Development, KSS Architects, Derek Weston, Watchdog Project Management, and Interpret Green.
Supporters
The Nest was generously supported by the William Penn Foundation, whose investment in the Literacy Rich Neighborhoods Initiative made this installation possible.
