Our Mission
At Theory of Play, our mission is to create a safe, inspiring, and enriching environment where children from Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade can thrive. We specialize in meaningful, self-directed playscapes that bridge the gap between play, education, and imagination, empowering children to explore, learn, and grow.
We are dedicated to homeschool families, providing opportunities that celebrate creativity, curiosity, and individuality. By fostering a strong sense of community and personal discovery, we ensure every child has a nurturing space to learn, develop, and belong, every day, month, and year.
Our Vision
At Theory of Play, we aim to be the leading homeschool enrichment resource in our community. Our vision is rooted in a whole-child approach, nurturing both mind and body through a balanced, activity-driven methodology.
Our programs combine project-based learning with child-led exploration, blending educator guidance with independent discovery. This approach fosters deeper engagement, critical thinking, and personal growth.
We envision a space where children and caregivers alike feel a true sense of belonging, a home away from home where learning is joyful, meaningful, and community-focused.meaningful playtime that cultivates a joyful and vibrant childhood.
Our Founder – Ms. Ashley
Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Ms. Ashley and her family have always been deeply connected to the community, with a focus on supporting children and nurturing impactful local small businesses. As a proud blended family with children ranging from late elementary age to adulthood, she understands the diverse needs of families in the area. With a strong background in Early Childhood Education and experience as the owner of the leading local early education campus, Ms. Ashley recognized a critical gap in the community: that every child, regardless of their educational journey, deserves a space to explore, create, and engage in meaningful play and connection.
Driven by this vision, she founded Theory of Play, a welcoming environment filled with child-led, hands-on learning, abundant materials, and social opportunities that foster growth, collaboration, and creativity. With over 15 years of experience working with children and families locally and nationally, Ms. Ashley understands how to balance parent-child interactions, nurture community connections, and empower children to make a positive impact in their world.
We warmly invite you to visit and experience our special place, a home where every child is celebrated, inspired, and supported.
Our Philosophy
At Theory of Play, we believe the most impactful learning engages both the brain and body. Guided by educational neuroscience and the four main theories of play, our philosophy creates a dynamic environment where children thrive.
Through multi-age group activities and small group rotations, children learn from one another while developing collaboration, curiosity, and confidence. Our curriculum integrates Art, Science, and World Exploration, allowing children to experience learning in hands-on, meaningful ways.
By balancing structured learning with open-ended play, we foster deep engagement, creativity, and discovery. Every child not only gains knowledge but also creates lasting memories, building a lifelong love of learning.
Our Values at Theory of Play
At Theory of Play (T.O.P.), our values guide every experience within our educational playscapes. As children explore, our team actively models and reinforces these values through meaningful interactions, helping each child grow socially, emotionally, and academically.
Perseverance – In our environment designed to inspire and challenge, children are encouraged to push through obstacles, develop resilience, and embrace the learning process.
Leadership – As children navigate our playscapes together, we provide opportunities for them to take initiative, support peers, and lead collaboratively through play.
Adaptability – Growth comes from new experiences. We celebrate adaptability by encouraging children to embrace change, explore new approaches, and create innovative outcomes in their play.
Youth Positivity – When perseverance, leadership, and adaptability come together, positivity flourishes. We cultivate an environment where children uplift one another, build confidence, and engage in considerate peer interactions.
