Purposeful Play Lab
Where Imagination Meets Intentional Learning
At The Shlenker School, we believe that play is essential to a child’s development—and when guided with intention, it becomes a powerful tool for growth. The Sandi and Steven Wolf Purposeful Play Lab is a dedicated space where imagination, creativity, and essential life skills come together in an engaging, supportive environment.
Students in PreK-4 visit the lab twice a week, while Kindergarten students visit once a week for 45-minute sessions designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Each experience is thoughtfully crafted to help children build foundational social and emotional skills—such as collaboration, empathy, negotiation, and communication—all through joyful, play-based learning.
Through imaginative role play, storytelling, and hands-on activities, students learn to be flexible thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and kind friends. Guided by intentional instruction and developmentally appropriate prompts, they are empowered to express themselves, make choices, and engage meaningfully with peers.
At Shlenker, we know that the skills children develop through purposeful play extend far beyond the classroom. These early experiences lay the foundation for confident, compassionate learners—and for success in school and in life.
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. - Fred Rogers