Have you ever watched a child scoop birdseed, roll in grass, or wrap Play-Doh around tiny toys and think, “What on earth are they doing?” 

In this episode of Play Nature Podcast, host Rusty Keeler is chatting and laughing with Heather Bernt-Santy, THE Early Childhood Nerd, to find out why those moments are more than just mess and motion. They really are the heart of learning. They talk about curiosity, connection, and the magic of letting kids be wonderfully, gloriously human.

Heather shares her journey from podcaster to author and dives into the world of schema play. Those fascinating patterns children repeat as they explore how the world works. From enclosing and enveloping to transporting and transforming, she shows how every scoop, splash, and spin builds brains, confidence, and joy. 

Adults just need to step back, trust, and watch the wonder unfold.

In this conversation, you’ll hear about risky play and right-to-play advocacy, how teachers can shift from “doing” to “wondering,” and why grown-ups should trade control for curiosity. 

Top 3 Takeaways from The Early Childhood Nerd: Heather Bernt-Santy

Links:

thatearlychildhoodnerd.com

Facebook @thatearlychildhoodnerd 

Instagram @thatearlychildhoodnerd

TikTok @that_early_childh

BlueSky @ece-nerd.bsky.social 

LinkedIn @@heatherbernt-santy

Learn More: rustykeeler.com | @rusty_keeler_designs 

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