When the founder of Wild Child Play Co. opened her doors in Cherry Hill, NJ this month, Lindsay Forman Capecci was building a thoughtfully designed space where all children could grow, explore, and thrive. We sat down with her to learn more about her inspiration, the philosophy behind the space, and what makes Wild Child Play Co. so special.
Q: What inspired you to open Wild Child Play Co.?
“As an educator and a mom, I was always looking for new activities and places to take my own children,” she says. “I felt like our community needed a space that could be a one-stop shop for every type of family and every type of child. I wanted to build a play space that wasn’t just high quality in design but also in its activities and programming.”
Q: How did your background as a special education teacher influence the design and programs?
“My experience as a special educator shaped everything,” she explains. “I’ve worked with so many types of children and really believe in meeting a child where they are. That’s why I designed this space to accommodate all types of learners and kids. I wanted to make sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy here at Wild Child.” She adds, “I also kept the overall environment in mind—it’s not overstimulating, so any child can have an amazing time.”
Q: What sets Wild Child Play Co. apart from other play spaces in the area?
“We have some really fun play spaces around here, but none quite like this,” she shares. “Wild Child was designed with the same quality and care I’d give to my own children’s playroom. Every corner and toy was chosen with a purpose. A lot of play spaces feel like a bunch of toys thrown into a room, but this space has a clear vision and a systematic design for kids to thrive.”
Q: Can you tell us about the multi-sensory and STEM activities you offer?
“We have so many engaging activities here,” she says. “For example, we have a peg board system on the walls where kids can build their own ball tracks or gear systems. There’s also a magnet wall for kids who love building with Magna-Tiles. Our construction house is another favorite—it’s perfect for kids who enjoy using their fine motor skills to build and create.”
Q: What about gross motor and messy play? How do those support child development?
“For kids who need gross motor input, we have a large climbing structure with a slide as the centerpiece,” she explains. “It’s a safe space where they can run, climb, and release energy in a way that helps them focus later on.” As for messy play, she says, “It’s great for exposure to different textures and sensory experiences. It builds tolerance for the world around them and helps set them up for success when things aren’t always neat and perfect. Plus, it’s so much fun!”
Q: How do you ensure the space is inclusive for children with special needs?
Inclusivity is a top priority. “We’re not overstimulating, and we offer programming and activities for every child, no matter their sensory needs,” she says. “We’ll also have sensory-friendly hours twice a week with a lower capacity, so kids who need a quieter space can feel comfortable.”
Q: What measures do you take to keep the environment safe and clean?
“We’ve thought about everything when it comes to safety and cleanliness,” she assures us. “The entire play area has a poured rubber floor, and we constantly clean and sanitize as the day goes on.”
Q: What can families look forward to in the future?
“We’re working on our class schedule now and hope to have it ready in the next couple of months,” she says. “We’ll also have monthly ticketed events for the whole family to enjoy together. We really want this space to be a hub for families.”
Wild Child Play Co. isn’t just a play space—it’s a place where kids can learn, grow, and have fun in an environment created with intention and care. “I really believe there’s something for everyone here,” she says. “An activity for every type of learner and every type of child.”
