Baskets tipped out. Toys strewn across the room. Children squeezing into tiny spaces. It can feel relentless. But what if this is not defiance or disruption, but a powerful developmental drive at work?

This practical session unpacks play schemas as repetitive patterns that help children test big ideas about movement, space, containment, and cause and effect. Instead of shutting it down, you will learn to recognise common schemas such as trajectory, enveloping, and transporting, and respond with intention.

We will shift from behaviour management to developmental understanding. You will leave with practical programming ideas that work with children’s urges rather than against them, reducing frustration and turning everyday moments into rich learning opportunities.

What you will walk away with:
• A clear understanding of what play schemas are and why they matter
• The ability to recognise common schemas in everyday behaviour
• Practical ways to plan environments and experiences that support schemas
• Greater confidence responding to repetitive behaviour without labelling it as challenging