Play holds extraordinary potential, not only for children’s learning, but for shaping how we, as educators, design and inhabit the spaces where that learning unfolds. Yet do we fully recognise the activating force of play, its capacity to generate creativity, agency, and deep connection, and what this asks of us as educators?

In this webinar, we will reflect on how thoughtfully crafted and intentionally resourced environments can become living invitations for exploration, collaboration, and meaning-making. We will consider our role as curious co-players and keen observers, attuned to when to step forward, when to step back, and how to expand on children’s ideas with purpose and sensitivity. Together, we will explore how:

• Intentionally designed spaces can spark joy, wonder, and sustained engagement.
• Play provides opportunities for children to exercise agency, take risks, and build ideas in collaboration with others.
• Educators can curate environments that evolve in response to children’s discoveries and questions.

Participants will leave with practical strategies for designing purposeful, responsive environments that honour children’s ideas and sustain authentic, creative play.

Completing The Power of Play: Nurturing Creativity, Agency, and Belonging may contribute one hour of PD that aligns with the NESA (NSW) approved criteria and addresses:

The Australian Professional Standards for Teachers: APST 3: Plan for and implement effective teaching and learning

Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcomes: Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners

The National Quality Standard: QA 1: Educational program and practice