The Playful Lens

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).Edel Lawlor shares her journey from a social care practitioner to a play therapist, highlighting the therapeutic power of play and its impact on children's well-being. She outlines how children tell their stories through play and discusses the decline in children's play, the importance of play for parents, and the benefits of play therapy for teenagers and adults with disabilities. Edel also gives advice on how getting back to basics is often what our children really need and how her work has led her to appreciate the life changing power of simple experiences.Here is a link to Edel's inspirational Ted Talk: Unconditional Kindness Towards ChildrenFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨The episode is an invitation to imagine the impact of the disappearance of play from primary schools, emphasizing the loss of curiosity, belonging, cognitive depth, joy and professional identity. It calls for the protection and promotion of playful pedagogy as a way of deepening learning and creating alive classrooms.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy,Gillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing)In this enlightening episode Siobhán Prendiville, a child and adolescent psychotherapist with a specialisation in play therapy, shares insights on the therapeutic powers of play for everyone and the role of teachers in facilitating and observing children's play. She emphasizes the importance of valuing and understanding the individual experiences of play and highlights the link between play and curriculum objectives. The conversation explores the transformative power of play in education, well-being and personal growth. It emphasizes the experiential nature of play, its therapeutic benefits, and its role in building relationships and regulating emotions. The importance of creating a safe and playful environment is highlighted, along with the value of ongoing learning and embracing change.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).In this enlightening episode of The Playful Lens, Dr. Joanna Fortune returns to discuss the importance of playfulness for adults. The conversation explores how play can enhance relationships, combat burnout and foster creativity. Dr. Fortune emphasises the need for adults to reconnect with their playful selves, offering practical tips and insights on integrating play into everyday life. The episode highlights the significance of play in education, workplace culture and personal relationships, encouraging listeners to embrace playfulness as a vital aspect of their well-being.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

In this episode of The Playful Lens, Regina Igoe, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, discusses the significance of play therapy and psychoeducation in child development. ✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulnes and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing )SummaryIn this episode of The Playful Lens, Regina Igoe, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, discusses the significance of play and psychoeducation in child development. She emphasises the importance of understanding typical child behaviour, the role of play in exploring emotions, and how children learn conflict resolution through play. Regina also highlights the need for adults to facilitate a safe and supportive play environment, allowing children to express their emotions and build resilience. The conversation delves into the complexities of aggression and meanness in play, the impact of parenting on children's play experiences, and the necessity of creating a play-friendly environment at home and in schools.You will find more information about Regina and the parenting programmes she is involved in here:

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).The episode explores the shift towards playful learning in a Redeveloped Curriculum, the understanding of play in the curriculum, evidence of learning and assessment, professional responsibility and reflection, and the concepts of consistency and adaptability in teaching. It emphasizes the integration of assessment into the teaching process and the importance of being responsive to the context in teaching. The conversation covers the role of the progression continuum as a tool for teachers, the fundamental right of play in childhood, the curriculum's relationship with play, the importance of professional judgment and reflective practice and the message from the inspectorate.TakeawaysPlayful learning makes assessment more visible, not less.Consistency is about showing up and being responsive to the context, not about doing the same thing as everyone else.Assessment is integral to learning and should be built into the teaching process. Progression Continuum as a tool for teachersPlay as a fundamental right of childhood

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).In this episode, Helena discusses her journey to becoming a play therapist, the significance of play therapy in addressing trauma, and the holistic approach to child healing. She emphasizes the importance of personal development for therapists, the process of play therapy, and the role of toys and symbolism in helping children express their emotions. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health and the need for parents and teachers to prioritize their own well-being to effectively support children and adolescents.EAS/Counselling - Irish National Teachers' OrganisationIAPTPThe Children's Therapy CentreFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨In this episode of The Playful Lens, Debbie Cullinane discusses the transformative power of play in education and child development. She emphasizes the importance of sensory play, movement, and understanding children's unique sensory preferences. The conversation highlights how play fosters relationships, supports learning, and contributes to overall wellbeing. Debbie also addresses misconceptions about sensory play being exclusive to neurodivergent children and advocates for its inclusion in all educational settings. The episode concludes with practical tips for integrating play into daily routines and the significance of creating joyful experiences for children.00:00Introduction to Play Therapy and Its Importance02:47The Value of Play in Child Development05:48Understanding Sensory Play and Its Benefits09:03The Role of Movement in Learning12:14Navigating Sensory Preferences in Children14:52Creating Inclusive Play Environments18:00The Impact of Sensory Play on Well-being20:49Integrating Play into Educational Settings24:05Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Play Therapy31:10The Importance of Sensory Play for Regulation32:47Differentiation in Learning Through Play34:37Integrating Play into the Curriculum38:32Creative Approaches to Learning41:21The Need for Sensory Breaks43:12Misconceptions About Sensory Play46:58Valuing Sensory Play for All Children48:20Building Relationships Through Play49:04Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Bernie Smyth shares her insights on the importance of play in education. She discusses how play can be a powerful tool for learning, allowing children to express themselves freely and develop their creativity. Bernie emphasises the need for teachers to create engaging and safe environments where students can thrive. She also addresses the challenges teachers face in incorporating play into their classrooms and the importance of mentoring and collaboration among educators. The conversation culminates in a beautiful metaphor about finding the star within each child, highlighting the potential for growth and learning through play.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.In this solo episode of The Playful Lens, we pause to reflect on the powerful insights shared by our guests so far. From the role of play in the new primary curriculum to practical classroom strategies, parental engagement, and the link between play and wellbeing, this 15-minute recap distils key messages for teachers, parents, and school leaders. Tune in for inspiration and actionable ideas to champion play as a core pedagogy.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens podcast, Kate Maher, founder of Dúlra Cill Dara (@dulra_cill_dara) discusses the importance of outdoor play and the forest school ethos in childhood development. She shares her journey in establishing Dúlra Cill Dara, the benefits of nature-based education and the challenges faced by modern parents and educators. The conversation highlights the need for unstructured play, risk-taking and the role of language and folklore in connecting children with their environment. Kate emphasises the importance of creating safe spaces for children to explore and learn and her vision for equitable access to nature for all children.www.dulracilldara.ieFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode, Dr. Clara Fiorentini (@claramariafiorentini) discusses her journey in literacy education, emphasising the importance of play in early literacy development. She looks at the current rush to teach phonics in early childhood education and advocates for a whole school approach that values language development over immediate reading skills. Clara highlights the need for cultural shifts in how literacy is perceived and taught, encouraging educators to slow down and focus on the process of learning rather than just the end product. She also addresses the challenges of initiative overload and teacher burnout, urging teachers to reflect on their practices and prioritise what truly benefits their students.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode, we answer questions asked by other teachers. We discuss the significance of play in education, particularly focusing on its impact on teacher wellbeing and children's engagement. We explore the misconceptions surrounding play and learning, emphasising that play is not just for children but is essential for teachers as well. The conversation highlights practical strategies for incorporating play into the classroom, even in schools where it is not part of the culture. We also address concerns about maintaining control and structure while being playful in the classroom, ultimately advocating for a shift in mindset towards a more playful and engaging learning environment.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenathe.playful.lens.podcast@gmail.com

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens podcast, Michelle Mannix (@aistearmuinteoir) shares her extensive experience in teaching and her research on parental involvement in play-based learning. She discusses the importance of play in education, the challenges of changing perceptions among parents and the benefits of engaging parents in the learning process. Michelle reflects on her journey, the insights gained from her thesis and the practical applications of her research in the classroom. The conversation emphasises the need for a shift in mindset regarding play and learning, advocating for a more integrated approach that values both process and product in education.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this conversation, Dr. Joanna Fortune discusses the significance of play in both childhood and adulthood, emphasising its role in mental health, relationships and education. She explores how play fosters connection, creativity and emotional well-being, and provides practical tips for adults to reconnect with their playful side. The discussion highlights the importance of curiosity and playfulness in learning environments and how these elements can enhance teacher-student relationships and family dynamics.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), in this engaging conversation, Tina McLaughlin (@teacherofdotes) , a primary school teacher and play advocate, shares her insights on the significance of play in early childhood education. She emphasises that play is not just a break from learning but a vital component of children's development. Tina discusses the challenges educators face in fostering a playful learning environment, the importance of trusting children's instincts and the need for flexibility in lesson planning. The conversation also highlights the value of building relationships through play and the necessity of professional dialogue among teachers to support playful learning. Ultimately, Tina's passion for play shines through as she encourages schools to embrace the naturalness of play in their teaching practices.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), we engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jacqueline Fallon where she discusses the transformative role of play in education, particularly within the new Primary Curriculum Framework. She emphasises that children have both a right and a desire to play, which is essential for their learning and development. The discussion covers various types of play, the importance of child agency and how play can be integrated into senior classes despite common misconceptions. Dr. Fallon reassures teachers about the value of play in fostering resilience and well-being, ultimately advocating for a shift in educational practices to embrace play as a fundamental aspect of learning.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenahttps://www.siolta.ie/https://cslstudy.ie/news/https://ncca.ie/media/5016/preparation-for-teaching-and-learning.pdfhttps://ncca.ie/media/bw1j0jxg/play-learning-and-teaching-in-a-redeveloped-primary-curriculum.pdfhttps://dailypapert.com/hard-fun/

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), our very first episode delves into the significance of play in education and its impact on children's mental health and well-being. We share our personal journeys with play, discussing how our teaching philosophies have evolved to embrace play and playful learning. Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), each episode explores how play shapes who we are; in classrooms, communities and beyond. Expect thoughtful chats, laughter and plenty of playful inspiration.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helena