Where Play Becomes Learning: Inside Las Cumbres’ Family Infant Toddler Developmental Playgroups
During Las Cumbres’ Family Services drop-in developmental playgroups, childhood fun and developmental learning go hand-in-hand. These free community gatherings aren’t just a chance for young children to play—they are intentionally designed experiences that help children grow socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively, while offering parents a warm space for connection and support. Specialized early childhood professionals support each themed playgroup crafted with a thematic purpose. Whether children are splashing through bubbles during Water Play Day or squishing playdough between their fingers, they’re building essential developmental skills in joyful, low-pressure ways.
Water Play Day, for example, transforms outdoor space into a sensory-rich learning lab.
Children pour, scoop, splash, and experiment—building fine and gross motor skills, developing hand-eye coordination, and strengthening sensory processing. And because they’re playfully interacting with other children, they’re also practicing sharing, communication, and social skills. Parents chat nearby under the sun, encouraged by Developmental Specialists who are always on hand for questions and support.
On Playdough Day, children dig into tactile exploration that boosts hand strength, dexterity, and creative thinking. Parents often admit they avoid playdough at home—because of the mess—but here, kids can enjoy it freely while caregivers leave the cleanup behind. Early childhood experts gently model strategies that support emotional regulation, pretend play, and fine motor development, giving parents tools they can use long after the session ends.
And sometimes, the fun turns into full adventure—like Pirate Day, where children hunt for treasure, build pirate ships from imagination, and engage in swashbuckling (yet developmentally thoughtful) pretend play. Inflatable swords, treasure maps, and movement-based activities encourage gross motor development, cooperative play, and confidence-building. It’s not just play—it’s skill-building disguised as an epic quest.
A recent Pajama Party Playgroup offered another kind of comfort: connection. Children arrived in their coziest pajamas to enjoy unstructured play, story time, and bonding with peers. Between giggles and bedtime snacks, parents found community too.
Families consistently share how meaningful these playgroups are. Here’s what a selection of parents had to say.
“It’s a great way to get out of the house and add variety to our day… My son gets socialization, and I get connection too. It’s always so much fun.” quipped Amy
“I love being around other parents who understand what it’s like to juggle everything… It’s especially nice to connect with others who truly get it.” said Stephanie
“The staff are incredible—warm, welcoming, and so helpful. I’ve learned skills I use every day to support my child.” exclaimed Brianna
More than themed events, these playgroups provide what families need most:
Developmentally rich play
Expert support from early childhood professionals
Opportunities for parent connection and learning
A safe, inclusive place to grow, explore, and belong
At Las Cumbres, play is more than just fun—it’s the foundation for learning, confidence, and healthy development.
Want to join the next session? Visit lascumbres-nm.org/las-cumbres-events to learn about upcoming playgroup dates and registration details. Because every child deserves a joyful place to explore—and every parent deserves a supportive community behind them.