Ever since we introduced the community to the Studi-yo during our open house weekend in May, it's been clear that I'm not the only one drawn to the natural setting that the windows of our cozy space overlook.
It brings me so much joy to see families walk, stroll, and bike around the corner for our music, yoga, storytime, and nature play offerings. Bringing colorful blankets and smiling faces (and often snacks and stuffies), we settle into this beautiful backyard that we are grateful to share with our neighbors.
When the sun gets too toasty, we can shift our circle under the shade of the trees that many chatty birds and squirrels also call home. And when the rain gets too heavy, we can move inside our calm, cheerful Studi-yo to unwind, play, and create.
I'm so grateful for the relationships that are budding here. Between kids, adults, and families. Partner organizations and the neighborhood. The schools, church, and other groups that use the buildings, parks, and Little Free Library near Gilmore and Monroe Streets. Even the plants and pollinators. Studi-yo wouldn't be possible without you. Thank you!
We're All In This Together: A Benefit Event for the Hive
If you missed our summer outdoor music series with Angie from The Wonder Studio, you're in for a special treat! She's returning this month for a summer FUNdraiser benefiting our friends at The Hive: a coming-soon culinary collective and event space in nearby Fitchburg.
Around the time we opened our doors to the Studi-yo this spring, Angie introduced me to a fellow Kindermusik mom/entrepreneur Melissa Rushdi, who is also trying to bring a sense of community to her city. But, wouldn't you know it, there have been a few obstacles getting in the way of opening.
Angie and I (Sam of Playful Acorns) know how much time, effort, and money gets poured into a heart-led business while also parenting, and we want to help Melissa and The Hive in their journey to provide an intentional space that fosters authentic human connection, well-being, and inclusive community.
Bring along your picnic blanket and join us for a "We're All In This Together" benefit event for The Hive on Tuesday, August 18th from 5-6:30 p.m. in the backyard of Studi-yo/Glenwood Moravian Church (or indoors in case of rain). The evening includes a 45-minute Kindermusik class, free play, and food from Tricky Foods. Cost is $40/family (geared toward ages 0-7). All proceeds go toward the parking lot at The Hive. Click here to sign up.
The Hive is actively seeking investors who can help them get the parking lot and ADA-compliant bathroom needed to open their doors. If you or someone you know can invest in this community-focused space, please sign up for their newsletter, follow along on social media @love.thehive, and contact Melissa.
Upcoming Classes for Families
Check out the amazing activities we have lined up for families at our backyard space at Studi-yo this summer and fall! Stay tuned, more are coming!
Classes meet (rain or shine) at the Studi-yo patio and greenspace next to Glenwood Moravian Community Church, 725 Gilmore St, Madison (an indoor backup space and restrooms are available). Advance registration required. Do you have an idea for a class that you'd like offered in the future or would like to host? Contact Sam!
Updates made often in our free Madison Area Activity Guide and website.
Summer Outdoor Event Schedule (Kids and Families)
- Friday, Aug. 14 (3:30-4:15 p.m.): Musical Storytime with Emma of The Reading Nest for ages 1-5+ and caregiver (registration starts at $15).
- Monday, Aug. 17 (9:30-10:15 a.m.): Together in the Backyard with Christie of Naturing in Madison for ages 2-7 and caregiver (registration starts at $20).
- Wednesday, Aug. 19 (2-3:30 p.m.): Junior Yogi Workshop: Flower Power with Alyssa of little om BIG OM for ages 4-9, caregivers can leave or remain on site at Studi-yo (registration starts at $45).
- Saturday, Aug. 22 (10-11 a.m.): Woodland Fairy Party with Misty of Misty Honeybee's Arts Club for ages 3-10 and caregiver (registration starts at $15).
- Wednesday, Aug. 26 (1-2 p.m.): PB + Play: Storytime with Sam of Playful Acorns for all ages and caregiver (free, drop-in, optional RSVP/book purchase).
- Monday, Aug. 31 (9:30-10:15 a.m.): Family Music with Julie Mazer for ages 1-5+ and caregiver, babies welcome (registration starts at $10).
- Friday, Sept. 11 (9:30-10:15 a.m.): Family Music with Julie Mazer for ages 1-5+ and caregiver, babies welcome (registration starts at $10). The Madison Babywearing group will have its monthly meeting at Studi-yo following the music class from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11th. The meeting is free to attend, and you are welcome to stay after class to attend and learn more.
- Wednesdays, Sept. 16 - Oct. 7 (10:15-11 a.m.): Nature Baby & Me with Amy of Naturing in Madison for ages 6-18 months and caregiver (registration is free for 9/16 class and starts at $55 for 3-week series).
Upcoming Classes for Adults
Christie with Naturing in Madison will be holding one more Monday evening crafting meet-up in August, and then we'll be shifting to Sunday evenings starting in September. These meet-ups can be held indoors and/or outdoors on our patio space. Enjoy time together in/near nature crafting and chatting. Sign up here!
Summer/Fall Crafting Schedule (Adults)
Crafting Together offers a welcoming space for people of all ages to explore nature-inspired art, learn traditional craft skills, and nurture their creative spirit. Join us to unwind, learn something new, and connect with others through the creative magic of nature. Consider joining our Facebook group!
- Aug. 10: Monday, 6-8 p.m.
- Sept. 13: Sunday, 6-8 p.m.
- Oct. 11: Sunday, 6-8 p.m.
- Nov. 8: Sunday, 6-8 p.m.
- Dec. 13: Sunday, 6-8 p.m.
Classes are held the 2nd week of the month, with a mixture of bring your own craft gatherings and specific group projects. Costs start at $5/adult; Art Kits available as an add-on when registering if you would like to have materials provided for you.
Save the Dates
We're excited to offer more classes for adults, with more announcements coming soon! Save the date for Saturday, Sept. 26th when we'll be bringing together yoga + books + PUPPIES!
If you're interested in learning more about writing and/or publishing for children, please contact Alina with Little Story Squad. Save the date for Saturday, Oct. 3rd for a picture book publishing basics workshop!
The graphic below also includes some other events outside of our space that you might enjoy learning about here.
View all of our events and even more resources in our free guide!
Do you have an idea for a class that you'd like offered in the future or would like to host? Contact Sam!
Our Growing Collective
Contact Sam if you'd like to inquire about joining our growing collective! Monthly memberships include the options to store your supplies, attend Co-yo and/or Solo-yo Sessions, and host classes and/or daylong retreats.
As a reminder, the Studi-yo is located on the lower level of Glenwood Moravian Community Church, 725 Gilmore St., near Monroe Street. Please keep the driveway clear, but free parking is available on the street or church lot here.
Studi-yo Madison has a social media presence on Facebook and Instagram at @studiomadison. We hope you follow along! To get the most recent updates, please subscribe to our email updates below!
Please let me (Sam) know if you have any questions! Thanks!
