The Art and Science of Play

Welcome to a very special episode of the Big-Hearted Podcast! Today, we're diving into the Play and Programming Summit, designed to revolutionise your approach to early childhood education. Join us as we explore the incredible insights and practical strategies from our expert speakers.

Episode Highlights:

Day 1: The Benefits of Play

• Cognitive Development: Dave Jareb, an occupational therapist, discusses how play enhances brain function and growth.


• Playfulness: Reflecting on the importance of maintaining a playful attitude in both personal and professional life.


• Risky Play: Nicole and Tash from Inspired Family Daycare share how to manage and encourage risky play, ensuring emotional safety and development.

Day 2: Simplifying Programming

• Back to Basics: Tips on making programming simpler and more effective by focusing on what truly matters.


• Expert Insights: Stephanie Hoey, reigning Educator of the Year, provides a step-by-step guide to reframing your approach to programming.


• Setting Boundaries: Psychologist Leanne Tran emphasises the importance of boundaries and how saying "no" can positively impact children’s growth.

Day 3: Integrating Play and Programming

• Documentation: Learn from various educators about the best ways to document and observe children’s play.


• Human Design: Sam McCoy introduces the concept of human design and its application in creating a suitable environment for children.


• Practical Life Skills: Simone Pearson and Claire Warden from Children of the Wilderness highlight using practical life as a springboard for programming.

Key Takeaways:

• Emotional Safety: Understanding and addressing emotional risks in children’s play.


• Community and Connection: The significance of fostering a sense of community and emotional safety through play.


• Creativity and Critical Thinking: Encouraging creativity and problem-solving skills in children.


• Stress Reduction: The role of play in reducing stress and anxiety for children.

Additional Resources:

• Seasonal Planning Sessions: Included in the VIP ticket for practical, hands-on planning assistance.


• Books and Websites: Recommended by our speakers for further reading and inspiration.

Join the Conversation:

Participate in our nightly Q&A sessions with speakers, and stand a chance to win amazing prizes like membership access and planner sets. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to transform your practice and connect with like-minded educators.

We look forward to seeing you at the Play and Programming Summit!