A special thank you to the Tom Brady Family for their generous support of all Esplanade Association Youth & Family programming!
Children in the Park (ChiP)
About Children in the Park: Spring Break Edition
Join the Esplanade Association, Playworks New England, and Navigation Games at the Playspace Playground on the Esplanade for two days of engaging, active programming during April school vacation week!
Designed for kids and families, these free drop-in sessions offer a mix of play, exploration, and outdoor adventure along the Charles River Esplanade.
Tuesday, April 21 – Recess in the Park with Playworks
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Get ready to run, laugh, and play! Playworks brings their signature recess-style games to the park, creating a fun and inclusive environment where kids can stay active, build confidence, and connect with others.
Wednesday, April 22 – Orienteering in the Park with Navigation Games
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Put your navigation skills to the test! Families will learn the basics of orienteering and explore the park in a whole new way through an interactive, map-based adventure.
Event Details:
- Location: Esplanade Playspace, Charles River Esplanade
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Note:
- Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent, guardian, or caregiver at all times
- A signed waiver will be required to participate. We will have extras on hand or you can complete the registration here
- Snacks and water will be provided
- If you are a camp or organization wanting to bring a large group of 10+, please reach out to programs@esplanade.org
Event Cancellation
In the event of extreme weather or other hazardous conditions, the Esplanade Association will email all participants and post a cancellation notice. Please follow our social media accounts Facebook page (@EsplanadeBoston) / Instagram (@EsplanadeInBoston) to keep up to date about potential class cancellations.
About Children in the Park: Spring Break Edition
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Children in the Park (ChiP) is the Esplanade Association’s free youth programming series designed to bring hands-on, engaging experiences to the Charles River Esplanade.
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Through a variety of interactive activities, ChiP introduces children and families to new skills, creative exploration, and outdoor play in a welcoming and accessible environment. Programs are developed in partnership with local organizations and educators, offering opportunities to learn, move, and connect with the park in meaningful ways.
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Each season features a rotating lineup of activities that may include arts and crafts, games, environmental education, music, and more- encouraging curiosity and creativity for children of all ages.
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All Children in the Park programs are free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, teacher, or caregiver.
Interesting in partnering or learning how you can participate? Please email programs@esplanade.org
History
Started in 2009, Children in the Park is an Esplanade Association program developed to provide Boston-area youth with access to outdoor play and recreation on the Charles River Esplanade. The program was originally designed for school groups, camps, and youth-serving organizations, offering structured opportunities for children to engage with the park through age-appropriate activities and free play during the summer months.
Over time, Children in the Park has served thousands of children and expanded to reflect changing community needs while maintaining its focus on access, outdoor activity, and use of the Esplanade as a shared public space.
