Garrett County has always been a family adventure destination, known for its natural beauty and access, and younger children can find just as much fun outside as the big kids.
Although there is always an activity to do outside… sometimes the weather is not agreeable. In these all too familiar cases, local residents and families struggle to find indoor activities within county boundaries. The question of “what’s there to do?” finally has an answer. Located in the old “Rudy’s” building, Play Out Loud — an indoor play and children’s museum — creates the space for children to learn and explore indoors.
Play Out Loud is operated by the Livengood family, long-time locals Kaylee Livengood (owner of Play Out Loud) and her husband Scott. Both alumni of Southern High School, they moved back to the area shortly after having their first daughter. When traveling, the Livengood family enjoys exploring children’s museums and play centers, and wanted to bring their love of these spaces to their hometown.
In working with local businesses and members of the community, Play Out Loud becomes a host for creativity, imagination, social building skills, and fun. The indoor space is separated into themed sections, created with fostering imagination and independent play in different ways. From sand and digging pits, construction building blocks, farm land and market goods, restaurant diners, and veterinary offices – Play Out Loud has something for every child.
Included inside is a bookable party space. Adults can book a party directly from the website. Space with tables, crafts, games and more is privately separated from the play zones. Different party packages are available based on the size and needs of the group, including a private rental of the entire Play Out Loud space.
Two of the biggest attractions at Play Out Loud are the air table and farming play space. Upon walking through the doors, the farm isn’t spotted until you turn the corner. Looking back at the viewer is a floor to ceiling mural of farmland, barns, crops, and more (painted by Makayla Maule-Dust and her team).
A custom built farmers market building (courtesy of Mountain Fresh Farmers Market board and vendors and The Garrett County Farm Bureau) is filled with play food and dress up clothes. A large part of the indoor playground is dedicated to this theme, as a reflection of our county’s dedication to natural land and living.
The air table was built by local craftsman and engineer Phil Malone, director of GEARS (Garrett Engineering and Robotics Society). The table is an interactive piece, teaching children problem solving, and motor skills. The table uses air tubes to push and pull light objects like silk scarves and balls through itself. The tubes are clear, long, and criss-cross in random patterns. The output of the tube is high above the input, guiding children’s eyes up to catch the scarf out of the air.
Play Out Loud is a Garrett County decision that has been waiting to come. Local discussion of indoor play for children is now a reality. Play Out Loud offers an outlet for creativity and fun in any season of weather, and for every season of life.
For more information, visit the website https://www.playoutloudgc.com/
Article courtesy of The Garrett County Republican. Staff writer Claudia Reynolds can be reached at creynolds@wvnews.com.
