09/01/2026
This summer, Free-Range Kids served sixty-five families, families who let their kids get outside, get dirty, explore, discover, and play.
We spent our days right here in Melrose, on the trails, at the playgrounds, and in the local businesses that make this city what it is. We visited the DPW, the library, and City Hall. We spent time at Ell Pond, learning to identify the plants, animals, and insects living right in our little city. These kids saw how their community works, and they’re realizing their part in it.
That’s what this program is about. Giving kids room to be kids. To take small risks. To figure things out on their own. To learn about their community.
I believe real, unstructured time outside makes kids more capable, more confident, more themselves.
So to every family who trusted me this summer: thank you. I am grateful.
Joy 🦋
