Treehouse Trails

Camp, climb, burrow, and pretend in this enchanted forest setting. Canoe and fish in the blue river, splash in a mountain waterfall, build a fort under the enormous tree house, and serve a stew in the log cabin. Babies can stretch, explore, and relax in the new infant area.

How Adults Can Support Playful Learning in Treehouse Trails

• Follow the child’s lead if they are drawn to a particular area or activity. Take cues from them on how they want you to join in on the play: Eat a meal they’re serving in the log cabin? Fish together in the creek?

• Identify words that are specific to the play setting. Use the vocabulary while taking the role of co-player or play leader. Let’s go over the bridge and catch some fish in the blue river!

• Talk about whether the setting reminds them of any places they’ve been or things they’ve done. Have you ever gone for a walk in the woods? Seen a real fish swimming? Worn a life jacket? Ridden in a boat?

Discover more opportunities for growth in development and how to support children’s learning through play at Chicago Children’s Museum. Explore the Supporting Learning Through Play Guide here!