“Rusty has an innate ability to draw you in the moment he starts talking.  His calm and collected demeanor coupled with his deep knowledge base in risky play create a dynamic atmosphere in his presentations.  Participants could be overheard discussing the nostalgia of their own early childhood play, how it has shifted, and how they would like to bring it back once again.  On the logistical end of things, Rusty is approachable, responsive, flexible, and very easy to talk to.  It was an absolute pleasure working with him!”

“Want beautiful places for children to play?   Hills and hiding spots?  Ponds and trickling creeks?  Sand and climbing rocks?  Rusty Keeler has beauty in mind for children’s joy.  His designs are inspiring the playspaces of this generation. An enthusiastic, open-hearted speaker, Rusty gives  engaging presentations with a highly interactive delivery.  Audiences take away  ideas and energy.”

“I have been fortunate to hear Rusty speak at conferences three times, and am grateful we were able to have him as the keynote for our Annual Conference this April. In a world where worrying and anxiety are the norm, his work teaches us each to find our own comfort level with allowing children to take risks. I have observed participants move through their initial hesitations and fears as he speaks, from murmurs at the start to sharing fond memories of their own risky childhood play by the end. All children deserve the space to explore the world on their own terms and Rusty’s work exemplifies that.”