welcome to the village |
Youth Enrichment: Building a Village Around Your Child
At Play Cousins Collective, we believe that every child deserves to grow up in a strong, connected community where they are affirmed, engaged, and empowered. Our Youth Enrichment Pillar is designed to prepare children to inherit a thriving community—one that they actively help to develop. Through enriching programs like Mizizi Afterschool, IYA Play and Learn Labs, and seasonal camps, we cultivate leadership, collective responsibility, and social-emotional skills in a nurturing environment. By tapping into rewarding youth enrichment opportunities, your child will experience the freedom to explore, learn, and build meaningful relationships. They will benefit from the wisdom and guidance of powerful elders who have committed themselves to pouring into the next generation with great intention.
Additionally, our IYA Play and Learn Labs make civic and community engagement and personal development accessible to parents by providing enriching programming for their children while they participate in events, meetings, and workshops. These labs create safe, affirming spaces where children can engage in creative play, STEM learning, and cultural exploration while their caregivers build connections and strengthen their own knowledge and skills. We also offer this programming when school is out of session through our program "Schools Out". You can register by clicking Events.
Join us in building a village where every child can grow wild in wonder, strong in self, and deeply rooted in community.
Thrive Tribe at Alberta O. Jones Park
Tuesdays | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Alberta O. Jones Park
Join us for a free weekly wellness experience designed to support the health of your body, mind, and planet! Every Tuesday, we gather in community for physical activity, mindful conversation, and children’s enrichment—because thriving should be for everyone.
Program Highlights:
✅ YMCA-Led Workout to Boost Physical Health
✅ Children’s Programming to Keep Little Ones Engaged
✅ Eco-Mindfulness Discussion with Play Cousins Collective
✅ Focus on Environmental Wellness and Mental Well-Being
✅ Open to All Ages and Fitness Levels
Participation: FREE and open to every community member!
Register today: https://playcousinscollective.wildapricot.org/admin/events/
Mizizi Afterschool Program
Monday - Thursday | 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Location: Play Cousins Collective
Mizizi is a vibrant afterschool program designed to provide academic support, cultural enrichment, and personal development for students in a nurturing environment. Through mentorship, hands-on activities, and structured learning, we help youth build confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of community.
Program Highlights:
✅ Academic Tutoring & Homework Help
✅ Cultural & Leadership Development
✅ Nature-Based Exploration with Jefferson Memorial Forest’s ECHO Program
✅ Creative & STEM Enrichment with Technique, AMPED, & the Food Literacy Project
✅ Social-Emotional Learning & Relationship Building
Enrollment: Open to students ages 6-12. Limited spots available!
Register today!
Youth Enrichment Camps
Spring & Summer 2025
Locations: Various Community & Nature-Based Spaces
Our seasonal camps provide immersive learning experiences focused on creativity, cultural identity, and leadership development. Each camp is designed to help youth explore their heritage, embrace nature, and develop critical life skills in a fun and engaging setting.
Upcoming Camps:
Camp Express & Explore (STEM & Cultural Exploration)
$100 per child | Registration Link
March 31 - April 4 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Summer Success League (Free; JCPS students only)
June 16 - July 11 | 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM | Registration Link
FREE Sponsored by JCPS & Evolve502
Camp MelaNation: A Journey around the world!
$200 per child | Registration Link
**July 14 - July 25 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM**
What to Expect at Our Camps:
✅ Hands-on Creative & Cultural Activities
✅ Outdoor Play & Nature-Based Learning
✅ Confidence-Building & Leadership Development
✅ Small Group Learning & Mentorship
Enrollment: Limited spots available! Secure your child’s place today!
Join Our Village!
Play Cousins Collective is committed to nurturing Black children and families by creating spaces where they feel seen, heard, and empowered. We believe in building a village of support through education, culture, and collective care.
