Now Open: Recess Collective

San Francisco parents, it’s time to celebrate—Recess Collective is open for business! If you are like us, you were sad to hear about this staple in the Bay Area parenting community closing its doors this past August and you’ve been waiting with bated breath for the re-opening announcement. Well the day has come and we’ve got the full scoop below on what’s new, what will stay the same and what you can expect at the new-and-improved Recess Collective!

Community Hub

Ever since they opened their Potrero Hill doors as Recess urban recreation in 2008, Recess Collective helped countless parents find their confidence in their own journey toward raising healthy families and provided support during the often-isolating years of early parenthood. From educating families on birthing options to providing support once the baby arrives, Recess has been there and now Recess Collective will continue on with that work in a new Sunset location with a non-profit status.

According to owner Lisa Nowell, “Recess Collective is more than a playspace.  It is truly a community anchor in this transient hustle and bustle that is SF. It provides a refuge for parents of young children, opportunities for connection in the extremely vulnerable time of early motherhood and a welcome change of pace when you need it most. This organization is not just for kids, it is for parents to support your own sanity in this crazy parenthood journey.”

Non-Profit

As a non-profit, Recess Collective will be able to take in tax-deductible donations and apply for grants in order to offer subsidized memberships, increase playspace access to children with sensory sensitivities and leverage community partnerships to broaden reach.

The New Space

The brand-new 3000-square foot Sunset space offers a playspace for crawlers and young walkers as well as a separate space for kids up to age four to engage in child-directed, open ended play. Daily activities vary from music activities to a sensory lab—you are welcome to join in or opt out depending on your child’s interest.

Families looking to use the space can purchase a membership or take advantage of drop-in options (as available, limited numbers are available each day). Sign up in advance to reserve your space as the daily number of visitors is limited.

Parents will enjoy comfortable perks like a coffee and tea station, full kitchen for bringing your own food, a snack bar and a changing table with diapers available. Enjoy these while you there for morning playgroup or when you come back in the evening for a parenting workshop.

Party Time

Have Recess Collective host your next toddler shin dig and take the stress off of you. Parties get two-hour exclusive access to the facility including the kitchen.

Give Back

Help Recess Collective support families right here in our community to create a healthy, vibrant hub for all to thrive. #GivingTuesday is a day where anyone, anywhere can make a difference! Donate to Recess Collective and bring play to a child near you.

The Details

Recess Collective opens its Sunset location on Nov. 29. Take advantage of pre-opening specials on membership and playspace passes or book your spot in one of their upcoming workshops.

Recess Collective
2226 Taraval (at 32nd Ave)
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs. and Fri. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Closed Wed. and select holidays. Open only to members on rainy days.
Online: recesscollective.org

—Kate Loweth

Photos courtesy of Recess Collective.