After-School Programming for 2026-2027
What Makes Our After-School Different?
Intentionally Small
Small groups change the after-school experience. Children have more opportunities to connect with educators, develop genuine friendships, find quiet when they need it, and participate without getting lost in the crowd.
Who This Program is For
This program is designed for families who need reliable, engaging care during the after-school hours - with an environment that feels intentional, not just supervised.
We will be currently able to serve children attending Kindergarten - 5th Grade at the following elementary schools:
Marlatt Elementary
Bergman Elementary
Lee Elementary
Theodore Roosevelt
Transportation from school will be provided by USD 383 to MHK Play Studio.
What Sets MHK Play Studio Apart
After School that Feels Different
Children have already spent hours following schedules, transitioning between activities, and meeting expectations. Here, they have space to exhale. They can choose what interests them, move their bodies, head outside, create something, care for an animal, find a friend, or settle into a quieter space.
Play with Purpose
Play isn't the break from learning. For children, it's where some of the most important learning happens. Our environment encourages creativity, problem-solving, independence, collaboration, responsible risk-taking, and the social skills children develop by navigating real experiences with other children.
Relationships First
Smaller groups allow our educators to really know the children in our care: what they're interested in, who they're connecting with, when they need encouragement, and when they simply need some space after a long day.
What Does an Afternoon Look Like?
After Arrival
Children will be provided the option to eat a snack provided by MHK Play Studio.
Open-Ended Play & Activities
Children are invited into thoughtfully prepared environments where materials can be used in countless ways — encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and independent thinking. Without a single “right” outcome, children are free to explore ideas, take risks, and follow their curiosity.
Responsibility & Care for the Environment
Children take an active role in caring for the space — from tending to animals to participating in daily routines that keep our environment running. These experiences build responsibility, empathy, and a sense of ownership as children learn that their contributions matter.