Introducing Mendo LEAP

A revolutionary blend of adaptive equipment and open-play 

This treasure trove of Pediatric developmental play resources is a total game-changer for parents, caregivers, educators, and specialists. With Mendo Leap, you can unleash the true potential of your little champs, no matter their age or ability. Get ready to LEAP (Learn, Explore, and Adapt through Play) with the Mendocino County flair! These inclusive tools not only spark curiosity and promote development but also help kids appreciate the breathtaking beauty of our county. Get your LEAP on!

BETA Facility

We are a locally owned and operated Development Center for children of all ages and abilities.

Facilitating learning, exploration, adaptation, and play for the Mendocino County community and beyond.

Our current location is a BETA facility designed to validate the concept in this rural community. We are constantly changing things up, testing systems and processes, trying marketing approaches, collecting surveys/feedback and more. Upon completion of this research and the acquirement of our funding we will expand into a significantly larger location to establish the Mendo LEAP Development Center Campus.

Mission

At Mendo LEAP, we believe that every child deserves the chance to play, regardless of age, size, or ability. Our mission is to provide health specialists, social workers, and families with a clean, safe, and unique space to promote growth-through-play. Our goal is to serve as an outlet for all those who care for or work with children and need access to our therapeutic and educational play equipment to achieve their objectives.
A Development Center with a Commitment to Inclusive Play

Philosophy

On Play and Child Development
We hold the belief that play is a fundamental aspect of growth and development. Every child possesses the right to play, and we recognize that when we cater to their developmental requirements in an inclusion-focused center with shared resources, we create an environment that empowers caregivers, nurtures students, fosters professional fulfillment, and enriches the family and community as a whole.

Learn

Our facility provides an ideal location for schools to take their students on field trips that are both educational and enjoyable. Our playfully-interactive themed exhibits offer a unique opportunity for students to explore the beauty of Mendocino County while meeting academic objectives.

Explore

Our interactive play exhibits cater to learners of all sizes, ages, and abilities. With ‘open play’ concept equipment, these exhibits encourage children's growth and development through a stimulating STEM approach.

Adapt

Our facility is also utilized by agencies and specialists to help their clients achieve their developmental goals. With our exclusive sensory/adaptive equipment room, private offices, classrooms, and co-working spaces we are revolutionizing the therapeutic and rehabilitation industries for children in Mendocino County.

Play

Our facility champions an inclusive and adaptive approach to play exhibits, allowing children to experience play in a manner that is not accessible anywhere else! Our zoned play areas are based on skill and development, accompanied by custom adaptations to enrich the experiences of those who wouldn't otherwise be able to access a facility like ours.

We see the value of play in development, relationships and life; and we want everyone to have access to it!

Meet Our Founders

  • Megan Peterson

    FOUNDER - OWNER

    It began as a dream. Then, when the COVID-19 shutdowns eliminated this new mom’s community and connection, she sank into a lonely postpartum despair. Fueled by compassion for the other parents in the community who desperately needed connection, support, and reprieve, Megan diligently researched planned, refined and designed what is now Mendo LEAP. She is determined to provide a space where all are welcome to experience the healing power of play and connection no matter their age, development, or economic status. The possibilities are endless for Mendo LEAP.

  • Jonathan Peterson

    FOUNDER - OWNER

    When COVID-19 forced him to close his mobile welding service business, Jonathan was left without a way to provide for his newborn child, wife and toddler at home. Everything he had worked so hard for after returning to the community from serving in the Coast Guard was quickly slipping away. He was also enlightened about his role as a father. Starting as a foster parent before he had kids of his own, he became passionate about being present in his children’s lives and about encouraging other dads in the joys (and struggles) of parenting. In support of his wife’s vision, he boldly put his welding business on hold to join Megan on the journey to enrich the lives of families in our community with Mendo LEAP.