Rise Community

Together we belong. Together we learn. Together we rise freely.

Rise Community is a mixed-neurotype, nature-rooted learning space for ages 7–11, blending gentle structure with wild exploration. With a flexible weekly rhythm, optional academic support, and Project Base Learning, Rise offers a soft place to land and a wild place to grow.

At Rise, we believe belonging comes first. When children feel safe, seen, and accepted, they open themselves to curiosity and connection. From that foundation, learning can go deeper—through hands-on discovery, creativity, and collaboration. And as relationships and learning take root, kids gain the confidence and freedom to rise fully into who they are.

The Heartbeat of Rise

At Rise our days are designed with care balancing movement, exploration, creativity, and connection. Each part of our rhythm works together—helping kids feel energized, supported, and inspired, while building a community that lifts every member of the family.

Wild Minds

A 3-Day a week Project-Based Learning Program for Ages 7–11

Where creativity and curiosity run free. In Wild Minds, we blend academics with hands-on projects, nature exploration, and peer connection. Designed for mixed-neurotype learners, this program nurtures the whole child—intellect, imagination, and social-emotional growth.

  • Movement, Play, and Body Confidence for All Kids

    We start strong with Active Hour —energizing minds and bodies through games, challenges, and outdoor play. This movement time builds strength, coordination, and teamwork while helping kids feel engaged, supported, and ready to focus for the day ahead.

  • Where curiosity leads the way.

    After Active Hour and a relaxing lunch, kids dive into their Discovery Block—a Project Based Learning program rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection. Through hands-on projects, nature exploration, and collaborative learning, kids gain both academic skills and the confidence to think, create, and thrive.

  • Unstructured Joy in a Magical Setting

    Sprinkled throughout the day—and closing each afternoon—we make space for unstructured, child-led free play in our beautiful park setting. These moments give kids the freedom to follow their curiosity, burn off energy, and simply be themselves. Whether climbing, building, imagining, or just lying in the grass, free play boosts creativity, strengthens friendships, and helps all bodies and minds recharge. Our day always ends with a gentle wind-down, so children leave feeling calm, connected, and content.

The Compass Club

Community field trips, adventures, and beach days for the whole family

From tidepool explorations to museum days, The Compass Club takes learning into the real world. Families can join in on guided adventures that build friendships, spark discovery, and deepen our connection to the world around us.

  • Learning beyond the classroom.

    From museums and science centers to farms and historic sites, our field trips connect classroom ideas to the wider world—making learning tangible and exciting.ion text goes here

  • Where the ocean is our teacher.

    We explore tidepools, learn about marine life, and practice water safety while enjoying games and free play on the shore. These days combine science, stewardship, and pure beachside fun.

  • Discovering the wonders in our own backyard.

    We are so lucky to have access to incredible outdoor spaces—from serene nature preserves and vibrant botanical gardens to mind-blowing play structures and whimsical musical parks. These days are for exploring freely, letting curiosity lead, and diving headfirst into the magic of imagination.

The Nest

A support and connection hub for parents & caregivers

The Nest is your place to land—a welcoming circle for parents of neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alike. We host coffee dates, kid-free outings, book clubs, and workshops that lift, connect, and inspire. Because thriving kids need thriving parents.

  • Start the day with warmth.

    Weekly tea and coffee meetups offer a relaxed space to share stories, swap tips, and simply enjoy each other’s company. No agenda—just connection over a warm cup.

  • Because parents need playtime too.

    Kid-free outings give parents & caregivers a chance to unwind, laugh, and nurture friendships outside of daily routines. From dinner nights to local events, these moments are about joy and recharge.

  • Fuel your mind, feed your soul.

    Workshops, book clubs, and discussion circles provide opportunities for learning, inspiration, and creative growth. Topics range from parenting strategies to personal passions, with space for open conversation and shared ideas.

Rise

Volunteers & Friends Program

Share Your Skills. Shape a Community.

Community thrives when people come together to share their time, talents, and passions. Whether it’s leading a workshop, lending a hand on field trips, or offering support behind the scenes, your contribution helps every child—and every family—at Rise grow and thrive.

NeuroUnique

at Rise

A quietly inclusive space for every kind of learner.

At Rise, we recognize that every child brings their own way of thinking, feeling, and moving through the world. We call this being NeuroUnique — a term that reflects the incredible diversity of human minds, including those with autism, ADHD, PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), and other neurodivergent experiences.

While we don’t make neurodivergence the center of our public messaging, it is at the heart of how we build our community, design our days, and support each child.

With personal and professional experience supporting children with a range of NeuroUnique profiles, including autism, ADHD, and PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), we recognize that inclusion doesn’t mean treating everyone the same — it means seeing each child clearly and responding with care, creativity, and flexibility. PDA, in particular, can make school and social environments feel overwhelming — even unsafe — when kids are met with rigid expectations or assumptions about how they "should" behave.

At Rise, inclusion doesn’t mean treating everyone the same. It means seeing each child for who they are — their strengths, sensitivities, and needs — and adapting our environment to support them accordingly. Some children may need more space, more movement, more choice, or more connection before they’re ready to engage. That’s not seen as a problem here — it’s just part of the rhythm.

We blend tools like Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) with lived experience and deep listening to build trust, not compliance. We don’t aim to fix kids. We aim to support them in growing into themselves.

Whether your child is neurotypical, neurodivergent, or somewhere beautifully in between, they will be welcomed with curiosity, care, and compassion.

We See You, Parents
 You’re doing the deep work. The quiet work.
The laundry-folding, snack-prepping, backpack-packing, emotion-coaching, meltdown-navigating, emotional triage work.

We get it — because we’re living it too.
That’s why Rise was created not just for kids, but for the whole family.
Here, you’ll find community, compassion, and a place to exhale.

Flexible Enrollment for Every Family

Full Program: $500/month – just $125/week
3 days a week of learning, movement, creativity, and connection — plus Compass Club adventures and The Nest parent community.

Weekly Enrollment: $125/week
Choose the week that best fits your child’s interests — from Arts & Culture to STEM — and join us for a full themed experience.

Community Membership: Donation-based – Compass Club & The Nest only
Join our family adventures, beach days, and parent gatherings without weekly classes. Community events will be schedule throughout the week depending on the adventure!

*Families who send aides or volunteer during program days receive half-price tuition — our way of honoring the extra time, care, and love you bring to our community.

We work hard to keep Rise affordable because we know the value of a safe, supportive, and joyful place for kids to grow.

At Rise, we believe community and learning should be within reach for all families. Whether you join us for the full month, a single themed week, or just our community gatherings, there’s a place for you here.

Meet the Founder

Hi, I’m Candice , the heart and chaos coordinator behind Rise Community. I’m a parent first, to a wildly brilliant, NeuroUnique kid who has been my greatest teacher and inspiration for building this community.

*Real photo, not Ai - this is just the perfect representation of our relationship!

Training & Experience
I’m a certified children’s yoga instructor, a Process and Healing Art Guide (because art is part of who we are, not just something to “teach”), and I’m trained in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and trauma-informed practices. I’ve worked in occupational therapy clinics, supported twice-exceptional (2e) learners, and collaborated with educators, therapists, and aides to bridge gaps for kids who think, feel, and grow outside the box. Alongside this, I’ve designed creative, inclusive curriculum that weaves academics, art, and social-emotional growth into one big tapestry of belonging.

Before Motherhood (a.k.a. The Other Life)
Before diving headfirst into the world of raising and advocating for NeuroUnique learners, my background was in marketing, communications, events, and nonprofit work. Those years gave me a foundation in storytelling, organization, and community-building — all skills I use daily usually while holding a cup of cold coffee with my sons voice in the backround and our Austrailian Cattle Dog at my side!

Life Outside of Rise
What keeps me grounded? Abstract art, photography, running (or just moving my body in whatever way the day allows), and spending time in nature — especially at the beach, my happy place. Animals have always been a source of joy and calm for me, and you’ll often find me drawing inspiration from their quiet wisdom. These passions keep me centered so I can show up fully for kids and families each day.

At Rise, I believe kids thrive when they feel safe, seen, and supported — and families thrive when they know they’re not alone. This community is my love letter to both.

And if you ever want to swap tea & coffee recommendations, ocean views, or random Lego-building hacks, I’m your person.

With Love & Caffeine, Candice

FAQ’S

We know choosing the right program for your child is a big decision — and you probably have lots of questions! At Rise, we value openness and want you to feel confident every step of the way. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions families ask us. If you don’t see your question here, please reach out — we’re always happy to chat.

  • Our days follow a gentle but intentional rhythm designed to keep kids engaged, supported, and happy. We start with Active Hour to get moving and connect as a group, followed by our Discovery Block for project-based learning in the week’s theme. There are breaks for Free Play throughout the day, plus plenty of time for snacks, socializing, and outdoor exploration. Each day ends with a calm wind-down and free play so kids leave feeling centered and content.

  • Yes — absolutely! Rise was created with neurodivergent children in mind, and we celebrate the strengths and unique perspectives they bring. We use the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) method developed by Dr. Ross Greene, paired with years of hands-on experience working with kids who have autism, ADHD, PDA, and other neurodivergences. Our approach is inclusive, supportive, and designed to meet each child where they are.

  • Conflict is a natural part of growing and learning together. When disagreements happen, we approach them as opportunities to practice empathy, communication, and problem-solving. We use collaborative conversations to help kids understand each other’s perspectives, work toward solutions, and repair any hurt feelings — rather than relying on punitive measures.

  • We’re prepared for bumps, scrapes, and the occasional tumble that comes with active play. We have extensive first aid kits on hand at all times and years of experience tending to “owies” as both caregivers and parents. For anything more serious, we have a direct line to park security and 911 is just a short call away. Your child’s safety and well-being are always our top priority.

  • We recommend sending your child with a refillable water bottle, a healthy snack and lunch, comfortable weather-appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes for outdoor play. On sunny days, sunscreen and a hat are encouraged; on cooler days, layers are best. All project supplies are provided by us.

  • We embrace nature in all its moods! Light rain doesn’t stop us — we simply gear up with jackets and boots and continue our activities. In heavier rain or unsafe conditions, we adjust by using sheltered spaces in the park or shifting to creative, hands-on projects that can be done under cover.

  • Small groups are essential to keeping our environment safe, inclusive, and engaging. We cap enrollment to ensure every child gets personal attention and support, and we maintain a low adult-to-child ratio, especially during hands-on projects and adventures.

  • Every new family begins with a meeting so we can get to know each other, followed by a free trial day. This helps ensure the program is a great fit for your child and gives them a chance to feel comfortable before committing to enrollment.

Still have questions?
We’re here for you. Whether you're wondering about the little details or the big picture, we’d love to connect. Reach out anytime — because at Rise, you're not just enrolling in a program, you're joining a community.