our story
Why Stories?
Stories are a powerful way to deliver information, and our brains are wired to remember information delivered in a story format. Not only does it create a fun way to learn, it also gives purpose to each lesson. At Play Smarter Kids we use stories to create classes that are imaginative, fun and creative, and as a compelling way to incorporate history, literacy, and complex concepts.
Our Story
Stories are a powerful way to deliver information, and our brains are wired to remember information delivered in a story format. Not only does it create a fun way to learn, it also gives purpose to each lesson. At Play Smarter Kids we use stories to create classes that are imaginative, fun and creative, and as a compelling way to incorporate history, literacy, and complex concepts.
Play Smarter Begins
In 2012, Play Smarter Kids started as a mobile program and partnered with various institutions to provide enrichment classes, family science nights, and summer camps to children in Houston.
In 2016, we opening our first location; allowing us to focus on early enrichment education and the impact of literacy immersion on early education.
The impact was amazing, and luckily others thought so too! Our programs quickly filled up and hundreds of children were participating in our story based adventures. In 2020 we took the opportunity to move back to my husband's childhood home of Bonners Ferry.
Nice to meet you
My name is Marissa Sumpter and I have always had a passion for stories. During my college years, I explored various majors, including Speech Pathology, Psychology, Sociology, and Design. While in college, I worked in Montessori and Reggio Emilia preschools, which sparked my interest in teaching.
After graduation, I taught robotics and technology for a local college as a summer camp teacher. In 2012, I combined my love for stories, passion for teaching, and a new found interest in robots to create Play Smarter Kids, incorporating traditional philosophies with modernized curriculum to fit the needs of today's children.
psk 2.0
Childhood is such a brief and special time, and early education should celebrate that. After leaving the traditional classroom, I aimed to develop a more imaginative and engaging approach. I have eagerly awaited the reopening of Play Smarter Kids for years, and I am thrilled to share our story adventures with children in our community.
As teaching is a significant part of my life, every story I create has a goal: to make learning memorable and magical. We hope to share our programs with you and your family - one tale at a time!
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"Our son struggled in occupational therapy and in speech but has absolutely soared at Play Smarter. He has gone from A to Z in just a month! Their story-based curriculum is one-of-a-kind, hands-on, and is designed to stimulate both sides of the brain simultaneously.
Your kiddos are missing out if they're not going here!"
Ashley C.
Hunter's mom