This article describes the research behind and development of Play Lab, a play-based authentic learning environment for university students learning to teach children with developmental disabilities and the case study analysis from the Play Lab's first year of implementation. Data from (a) pre-development surveys which were triangulated with (b) parent and university student surveys, including questions about needs, knowledge, comfort level in working with children with developmental disabilities, (c) university student reflections and survey questions about satisfaction with the course; (d) feedback from parents during Parent Night; and (e) a review of university student projects describe Play Lab's authentic learning environment as reported by the university students.