Hello, We are River's Edge Forest play
Where Childhood Comes alive and children Learn to thrive
Do you want your child to have the kind of childhood memories that come from endless hours of outdoor play—exploring, imagining, and discovering?
At River’s Edge Forest Play, children are valued for who they are and supported as they grow—through play that encourages curiosity, confidence, and connection. Children learn how to play with others, express emotions with care, and move at a gentler pace that honors their natural development and individuality.
River’s Edge Forest Play engages the whole child. Through rich sensory experiences—sight, sound, touch, smell, taste, balance, and self-awareness—children grow socially, physically, intellectually, and emotionally.
River's Edge Forest Play...
A magical place where Children Connect with Nature, Themselves, and Others
Erin Songer - Executive Director
Erin brings over a decade of expertise in sales and marketing, coupled with a deep passion for childhood education and nature-based learning. Her journey into environmental education began with her involvement at River Edge Forest Play, a cherished program where her children have thrived for many years. Inspired by her experiences, Erin embarked on a path to enhance her skills, becoming certified through the Cedarsong Foundation course and The Cedarsong Way Forest School Therapist Certificate of Completion.
Erin's commitment to children's development is rooted in her belief that they are the future leaders of tomorrow. Her dedication extends beyond professional endeavors, as she actively contributes to creating nurturing and educational environments where children can explore, learn, and grow. Erin continues to blend her background with her newfound passion, striving to positively impact the lives of children and families through innovative educational initiatives.
"I believe parents should let their children be wild and imaginative, enjoying the forest and the sunshine, so they can grow into grounded adults who will create a better future." ES
Steve Songer - Executive Director
Steve holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Fitness from Salisbury University in Maryland. While at Salisbury Steve worked with mentally and physically disabled youth to form a power lifting team in the Special Olympics. Steve has worked with both adults & children in strength & conditioning as well as speed & agility training for 30+ years. In addition Steve has coached boys lacrosse for friends and family for 20+ years which includes both his boys Steven & Hudson.
Having lived in South County for 40+ years, Steve knows the value Rivers Edge brings to the youth in the community and surrounding areas, having been one of those kids himself.
"My parents allowed my brothers & me to wander freely with our friends on a daily basis building leaf & stick forts, catching frogs & salamanders, and running down the paths we created. Watching my boys have similar experiences in the woods of Rivers Edge has been a true blessing for our family." SS
Ben Clark - BS/MS LCPC Therapist
Ben Clark earned his Master of Science in Professional Counseling at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ, and he also has a Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Trauma Certificate from Grand Canyon University. His therapeutic approach is strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, solution-focused, and emotionally focused methods. His work is creative, flexible, and tailored to everyone's needs. By recognizing a client's strengths and fostering personal growth, Ben helps clients move beyond simply managing or coping with challenges to genuinely thriving.
As a father of three, Ben understands and appreciates all the complexities present in family life these days and understands the importance of the unique needs of family dynamics. He brings over a decade of experience as a Behavioral Therapist, specializing in helping individuals and families overcome social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. His integrated approach and passion for connecting therapy with the healing power of nature make him an incredible addition to our team. His dynamic path of study deepened his appreciation for understanding human needs, including basic and environmental needs, security, relationships, emotional belonging, esteem, and the capacity for growth.
Ali Adcock - Forestplay Director, Tutor, and Forest Guide
Ali holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies with a minor in Sociology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. During her time at St. Mary’s, she focused her studies on the Sociology of Childhood and Environmental Sociology—two fields that continue to influence her work today. A lifelong Girl Scout, Ali joined the organization in kindergarten and remains deeply connected through her annual summer volunteer work at camp. She earned the prestigious Gold Award by designing and leading a program that prepared athletes to compete in Special Olympics bowling.
Ali has always had a love for the outdoors, spending much of her youth camping with both her troop and her family. Surrounded by nieces and nephews while growing up, she naturally gravitated toward working with children. River’s Edge Forest Play has been the perfect place for her to blend her academic background with her passion for nature-based education.
In addition to her environmental and social science background, Ali is trained in the Orton-Gillingham Method through IMSE’s Comprehensive Plus course. This training equips her with specialized tools to support young readers—particularly those with dyslexia—in building strong, confident literacy skills.
"I love seeing children playing the way I used to play. We should be outside, getting in the dirt, making mud pies, and letting our imaginations run wild." AA
Allison Barkdoll - Forest Guide
Allison is a passionate and a creative individual with a deep love for nature, animals, and working with children.
With years of experience as a nanny, Allison has formed strong, meaningful bonds with kids of all ages. Her calm, caring presence and love for helping children grow make her a thoughtful and supportive mentor.
Allison’s love for animals runs deep—at home, she cares for a lively bunch, including a dog, two cats, five ducks, a turtle, and a fish tank. Travel and nature continue to play a big role in her life. Whether she's hiking in the Shenandoah Valley or relaxing by the ocean in the Outer Banks, she finds joy and renewal in the outdoors.
Allison is excited to combine her passions for kids, animals, and nature into one meaningful experience. She’s dedicated to helping each child feel safe, inspired, and empowered to be themselves.
“Nature has always felt like home to me. I grew up playing in creeks and hiking through the mountains, and I love bringing that same sense of freedom and joy to the kids I work with. Watching them connect with nature and with themselves—it’s the best part of what I do.” – AB
Jessica Farrell - Forest Guide / Marketing Director
Jessica Farrell blends creativity and child-centered experience at River’s Edge Forest Play. She worked for decades as a creative director and photographer for national fashion brands. Jessica also taught yoga and mindfulness to children and adults in a variety of settings—from a family shelter, a sleep-away camp, yoga studios and special workshops held deep in a pine forest yurt.
In 2021, Jessica moved full time into early childhood education, earning her Preschool Lead Teacher Certification with a focus on Child Growth and Development, Early Childhood Methods and Materials, Responsive Classroom, and Magic 8 Early Childhood Practices. Jessica supported the special education department in an Annapolis public school and led pre-K classrooms and summer camps in an Edgewater private school. At River’s Edge Forest Play, she unites her love and experience in child development, mindfulness, and creativity to support children’s natural and joyful connection to nature and learning.
Jessica lives in Annapolis with her husband and son. Her favorite things include being a soccer mom, hiking, bonfires, and growing organic food. She believes deeply in the wisdom, wonder, and connection found in the natural world.
“I remember playing in the woods, cornfields, rivers, and streams when visiting my family in the country as a child.
Those moments shaped me, and now I witness that same freedom and connection in the children at River’s Edge Forest Play.
What a gift!” – JF
Alexis Haupt - Forest Guide
Alexis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Outdoor Leadership and Education from Elon University in N.C. Alexis is a dedicated advocate for holistic growth and immersive learning experiences. During her time at Elon University, Alexis served as a facilitator for an outdoor pre-orientation program, where she guided incoming students through transformative outdoor experiences. She also served as an Orientation Leader for students once they arrived on campus. Through these roles, she honed her skills in fostering teamwork, leadership, and personal development in outdoor settings.
Now, as a part of the RE team, Alexis is thrilled to continue her journey of inspiring others to connect with nature and discover the endless possibilities for growth and learning. With a passion for environmental education and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, Alexis brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the community.
"Life should be about loving all living things, humans and nature alike, and that love starts in childhood. I feel so lucky that I get to facilitate that love here at RE." AH
Christina peake - Forest Guide
Christina is a passionate environmental science student with a decade of experience working with children. Her love for nature began in her childhood, filled with adventures like making mud pies, catching turtles, and camping with family. This deep connection to the environment fuels her desire to inspire the next generation.
Christina’s nurturing spirit and dedication to child development are evident in her 10 years of experience as a babysitter, nanny, and preschool teacher. Now at River’s Edge, she finds joy in helping children blossom and embrace their individuality. When not working, you can find Christina in the garden or playing with her dog.
“Being able to help children grow and learn to be themselves is special to me, I love to help children be present in each moment and be the best they can be. Children’s unique view on the world makes me happy.” CP
Nancy Youngkin - Forest Guide
Nancy has a true gift with children. Nancy and her husband of 40+ years raised 5 beautiful sons who have in turn given them 5 beautiful grandchildren. Nancy is a calm even tempered presence around children giving them space to learn and explore while helping them understand the value in sharing, taking risks and being kind.
Nancy has worked in childcare for the last 25+ years serving children in gym childcare centers while parents worked out, as well as working at a local church camp caring for children in their summer camp programs and school year retreats. Nancy has been a Forest Guide at RE for 5 years working in the summer camp program, the FORESTplay program and the Little Ones program. Nancy is calm, helpful and a gift to the children and entire staff of REFP.
"I love watching children running, playing and exploring in nature. I love seeing them navigate through all kinds of weather. To see them discover the wonders of nature is truly magical." - NY