Yes! Each event we host is different. We are inspired by the history of the place and the spaces and amenities offered in the area, so events will always be different to leverage local resources.
WEATHER: The majority of events are outside. We are outside for most/all of the day. Bring a daypack to store extra layers, sun glasses, sunscreen, windbreaker, rain jacket, umbrella, appropriate footwear, etc, so that you are comfortable whatever weather may be. Depending on the location, we may have indoor spaces reserved for parts of the day, but this is not guaranteed and varies by location.
RESTROOMS: There are publicly accessible restrooms at or near all of our locations.
FOOD/DRINK: Please bring a daypack with your own full water bottle and snack or sack lunch depending on your needs. Most locations do have nearby spots to grab coffee/tea before our start time or to get lunch.
NOISE: We cannot predict noise levels since we are meeting in public spaces. Some places have more ambient noise than others (traffic, airplanes, sirens, etc). Feel free to bring ear plugs or loops, particularly to use during individual activities to help manage noise for your comfort. We provide a handout for each learning task as a reference with activity directions in case our directions are, at times, difficult to hear. (If the event is at a public park in King County, the county does not allow sound amplifying devices per Seattle and King County guidelines, so unfortunately we cannot use microphones to amplify our voices at these locations.)
MOBILITY/ACCESSIBILITY: We do spent our time outdoors -- standing, walking, sitting on the ground, bending over, and engaging in some level of moderate physical activity. Most locations do have public seating such as low concrete walls, benches, and picnic tables. Feel free to bring a portable folding/camping chair for your comfort, if you prefer. Our locations are wheel-chair accessible, though some parts may have uneven pavement due to tree roots and some places may have low-cut grassy play fields. If you have any specific mobility needs that we can assist you with or you'd like us to be aware of to allow you to fully participate in these learning experiences, please note them on the registration form or email us and we will do our best to accommodate.
TRANSPORTATION: Most of our locations have bus stops nearby and parking lots or street parking available. Due to parking constraints at some locations, be prepared to walk a few blocks. If you choose to park in a paid lot, you are responsible for covering that cost.
Please email us ProDevPlayDates@gmail.com to let us know. If you enjoy your experience and are able to donate a small amount to keep our work going, donate here: http://bit.ly/pd2donate
If you paid for clock hours processing, you need to contact the University of Washington to inquire about any refund. For questions about clock hours, contact ConnectEd at coereg@uw.edu
Absolutely! Part of the experience is engaging in the play dates yourself as a learner. Then having some time to reflect on how to apply it to your teaching context. You may have to do a bit more work to modify or adapt tasks depending on the age, grade, or courses you teach. Additionally, we welcome instructional coaches, administrators, or other interested parties. We are welcoming to anyone who wants to come play with us and learn together!