Check out the Play Talks preview episode.

Play Talks is the ultimate podcast for early childhood educators who believe in the power of play! Hosted by an experienced, play-based educator, this subscription podcast dives deep into the transformative world of child-led, open-ended exploration. Each month, you'll gain practical strategies, inspiring stories, and research-backed insights to create more joyful, engaging learning environments.

Subscribers receive:

• Two exclusive episodes exploring key topics in play-based learning.
• A new play invitation idea each month to spark creativity in your classroom.
• A professional book review to fuel your growth as an educator.
• Access to a supportive community with bonus surprises like live Q&As and guest expert episodes.

Whether you're a seasoned advocate for play or just starting your journey, Play Talks will equip you with the tools, mindset, and inspiration to make play the heart of your teaching. Subscribe today and let’s transform education—one play-filled moment at a time!

It's like the easiest membership to be a part of. Think of membership type content, but in an easy to listen to and access podcast.

Subscribe today to take everything you hear on Pre-K Spot Talks even further into more actionable how to steps.

Show Notes

Episode Title: Play Is More Than Fun: Cultivating a Play Mindset in the Classroom

Episode Description:

Welcome to this special free episode of Play Talks! Today, we’re diving into the transformative power of a play mindset—how shifting your perspective on play can bring more joy, creativity, and meaningful learning into your classroom.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

• What it means to have a play mindset and why it’s essential for educators.
• The incredible brain science behind play and how it builds critical skills like problem-solving, emotional regulation, and collaboration.
• Practical strategies for overcoming common barriers to play and advocating for its value in your classroom and beyond.

Plus, I’ll share a personal story about my journey to embracing play, and you’ll walk away with actionable insights and inspiration to make play a central part of your teaching practice.

Segment 1: Cultivating a Play Mindset

• What a play mindset is and how it shifts your approach to teaching.
• Why play isn’t just an activity but a lens for seeing and supporting children’s learning.
• How adopting a play mindset transforms your classroom and rekindles your joy as an educator.

Segment 2: The Brain Science Behind Play

• The powerful role of play in building neural connections, developing executive function, and fostering emotional growth.
• Why joy is essential to learning and how play creates a lasting emotional connection to knowledge.
• How play builds the social-emotional skills children need to navigate the world.

Segment 3: Overcoming Barriers and Advocating for Play

• Practical strategies to integrate play into your teaching, even with limited time or resources.
• How to reframe play as essential learning and communicate its value to parents, administrators, and colleagues.
• Why advocating for play isn’t just about the children—it’s about reconnecting with your purpose as an educator.

Take some time after listening to think about these questions:

1. How do I currently view the role of play in my teaching? What might need to shift to adopt a stronger play mindset?
2. What barriers are holding me back from fully embracing play? How can I start breaking them down?
3. How can I intentionally observe and support children’s play this week to better understand its value?

Click here for a worksheet of all reflection questions mentioned in the episode plus a few more to help you put into action what you heard today!

• Access the partial Article Folder Here - for the full folder subscribe!
• Check out Harvard's Center for the Developing Child here.

1. Observe Play: Spend time observing your students at play without intervening. Reflect on the learning you notice happening.
2. Start Small: Choose one activity this week to make more play-centered. For example, try using loose parts or open-ended materials in a lesson.
3. Reflect and Share: Use your Play Reflection Journal to document what you’ve tried and what you’ve learned. Share your insights with a colleague or in our Play Talks community!

• Subscribe to Play Talks: Ready to dive deeper into the magic of play? Subscribe now for exclusive episodes, play invitation ideas, book reviews, and more. [Link to subscribe]
• Email Me: Have questions or reflections? Reach out at [email protected]

Thank You for Listening!

I’m so thrilled you joined me for this episode of Play Talks. Remember, play isn’t just fun—it’s the heart of everything we do as educators. Let’s keep exploring, advocating, and bringing the joy of play to every child we teach. See you next time!

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

This season 7 bonus episode is a round table chat with fellow podcasting ECE's where we start to scratch the surface of important issues in the ECE field.

Topic discussion includes:

self-care, leadership, collaboration, advocacy, mentorship, and the importance of play - not just for children, but us adults.

Fellow ECE Podcasters are:

The Child Care Directors Chair

The Everything ECE Podcast

Shaping Little Minds

ECE, Honestly

The Inspiring ECE Podcast

The Forgotten ECE

ECE Classroom Podcast

Childcare Conversations

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Pre-K Spot Talks: Season 7, Episode 2 - Let's Talk: Play, Libraries, and Books with Jenn Hawkes

Join us in this enlightening episode of Pre-K Spot Talks as host Melissa welcomes Jenn Hawks, an educator and librarian passionate about intertwining the magic of books with the joy of play. With over two decades in early childhood education, Jen shares her journey from teacher to librarian and the significance of play in fostering meaningful learning experiences.

Episode Highlights:

Meet Jenn: 

Discover Jenn’s inspiring path from pursuing a degree in psychology at Columbia University to becoming the K2 librarian in her community. With a wealth of experience as a teacher and UPK administrator, Jen offers invaluable insights into adapting to new roles in education.

Play as a Learning Tool: 

Jenn recounts a transformative interaction with a concerned parent about the value of play in the classroom. Learn how her approach emphasizes genuine learning that flourishes through play, challenging conventional beliefs surrounding worksheets and formal assessments.

Revamping the Library Experience:

Explore how Jenn intends to transform the library into a vibrant learning hub where reading meets interactive play. She shares creative ideas for nurturing engagement through sensory activities and collaborative games tailored to diverse learning needs.

Key Takeaways for Educators and Parents:

- Understand that play is an essential component of education, enhancing problem-solving skills and creativity.  

- Foster a love for books by incorporating play-inspired literature that encourages exploration and emotional learning. Recommended titles include Heather Shoemaker’s thought-provoking works and other classics that spark imagination.  

- Recognize the importance of adapting lesson plans to meet children's emotional and cognitive needs, creating a flexible and joyous learning environment.

Advocating for Library Resources:

Jenn discusses the disparities in library support across educational districts and underscores the role of dedicated librarians in providing equitable access to literature. This conversation highlights the need for advocacy to ensure all children benefit from quality educational resources.

In Closing:

Join us as we delve deeper into Jenn's insights and her innovative approaches to early childhood education. Together, we can foster environments where children thrive, learn joyfully, and express themselves creatively. 

Action Steps:

- Engage with Play: Encourage your children to indulge in various forms of play that stimulate curiosity and creativity. Consider materials that promote open-ended exploration.

- Explore Literature: Introduce books that inspire discussions about identity, acceptance, and emotional growth in your child’s library.

- Advocate for Access: Support initiatives that aim to enhance library resources in your local schools to ensure every child has access to the joy of reading.

Tune in for an episode filled with actionable insights and expert perspectives that will inspire you to embrace play as an integral part of early childhood education! 

Don’t forget to subscribe and join the conversation on social media!

Find Jenn here on Instagram @readitagainmsjenn

Check out her You Tube Channel Readitagainmsjenn

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Episode Summary:

Welcome back to Pre-K Spot Talks! In our first episode of Season Seven, host Melissa is joined by early childhood experts Samuel Broaden and Kisa Marx as they delve into a deeply relevant topic: weapon play in early childhood education. This engaging discussion goes beyond mere policies and digs into how we, as educators, can approach this play with curiosity rather than fear, ultimately supporting children's emotional development and learning.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Weapon Play: Samuel and Kisa illuminate how weapon play can serve as a vehicle for children's emotional expression and social navigation. Listening to the motivations behind this play fosters empathetic dialogue and learning opportunities.

Creating Safe Spaces: Reflecting on their experiences, both guests emphasize the importance of creating educational environments where children feel emotionally safe to discuss their fears and experiences, especially when touched by violence.

Play-Promoting Policies: The conversation highlights the need for educators to shift away from restrictive policies toward more inclusive practices that honor children's innate impulses to explore complex themes through play.

Empowering Educators: Through community and sharing experiences, educators can overcome feelings of isolation and feel empowered to innovate their approaches, fostering a child-led classroom dynamic.

Community Connection: Samuel and Kisa stress the importance of building supportive relationships between educators and families, enabling a collaborative effort in nurturing children’s emotional well-being.

Actionable Steps:

1. Engage in Open Dialogue: Create opportunities for children to express their feelings about weapon play and related themes, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for discussing complex emotions.

2. Professional Development: Encourage your professional growth by attending workshops focused on inclusive practices in early childhood education to feel equipped to handle sensitive topics.

3. Build Community: Connect with fellow educators to share experiences and strategies around weapon play and other topics. Collaborating can reduce feelings of isolation and build a supportive network.

4. Reflect on Policies: Evaluate your current approach to weapon play and consider how you might shift toward a more understanding and inclusive strategy that respects children’s learning processes.

5. Utilize Resources: Explore books, like Samuel and Kisa's, and literature that discuss the nuances of play to gain deeper insights into navigating these discussions effectively.

Thank you for tuning in to Pre-K Spot Talks! Embrace the power of play and reflection to transform your teaching practices. Until next time—play on!

Get Samuel and Kisa's book, Rethinking Weapon Play in Early Childhood: How to Encourage Kindness, Imagination and Consent in Your Classroom here.

Find Samuel here @honorchildhood on Instagram, Facebook, and on the web.

Find Kisa here @iam_still_learning on Instagram and @theplaylabfoundation on Instagram and at theplaylabnfpoakpark.org

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Could integrating more play into your child's learning routine transform their development? On this episode of Pre-K Spot Talks, hosted by Melissa May, we unpack the fundamental distinctions between free play, play-based learning, and playful learning, and how each contributes uniquely to early childhood education. Melissa starts by highlighting the significance of free play—its unstructured, self-directed nature, and its role in fostering creativity, problem-solving, and crucial social skills. Drawing on the work of Dr. Peter Gray, she illustrates with real-life examples how children engaging in imaginative activities can navigate social dynamics and process their experiences in a safe, enriching environment.

As modern challenges like busy family schedules and increased screen time lead to a decline in free play, Melissa emphasizes its irreplaceable value compared to traditional worksheet-based learning. She transitions into the realm of play-based learning, where educator-designed activities with specific learning objectives guide children's exploration. By examining how free play and play-based learning can coexist, Melissa offers practical insights for educators to facilitate an engaging, efficient balance without over-managing playtime.

The episode culminates with a nuanced look at the various levels of playfulness in education, from playful learning to free play, and the pivotal role of teachers in each approach. Melissa advocates for integrating more child-led free play in educational settings and explores the mindful use of technology to complement traditional play. She concludes with a call to action for educators to reflect on their teaching practices and embrace playful teaching strategies, inviting listeners to join her for a private podcast offering deeper guidance. Don't miss out—sign up for our email list for updates and valuable resources!

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

What if your classroom could feel like a second home for your students and their families? Join me in this bonus episode of Pre-K Spot Talks as we explore the essential elements for a successful school year: building strong relationships with both children and their parents. Discover practical tips for creating a welcoming environment, from cozy reading corners to involving kids in decorating their space. Plus, I share engaging icebreaker activities that will make your students feel comfortable and valued from day one. 

Open communication with parents is a game-changer, and I’ll show you how to master it. Learn effective strategies for setting clear expectations, organizing family visits, and even integrating parents' passions and cultural celebrations into your curriculum. Handling late-night emails, scheduling parent-teacher conferences, and maintaining transparency through progress reports are all covered, ensuring you create a collaborative and supportive partnership with parents. 

As we conclude this enriching episode, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Pre-K Spot community. Your feedback is crucial, and I encourage you to share your suggestions, questions, and topics you’d like to hear about through the form in the show notes. Together, we'll continue to build a positive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment. So, grab your notebook and coffee, and let's embark on a journey to build meaningful relationships that will set the stage for a fantastic school year.

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Unlock the secret to fostering young minds through the magic of play with Zeba from Kindergarten Cafe, our esteemed guest for the season premiere of Pre-K Spot Talks. Together, we tackle the question: how do we champion the cause of play against the tide of an increasingly academic-driven curriculum? Zeba, with her wealth of experience from Massachusetts, illuminates the transformative role of play in early education and shares her strategic battle to embed play at the heart of learning. She offers insights on collaborating with educational leaders and using compelling research to advocate for play-based learning within her community. Her dedication shines through as she provides actionable tips for educators to persevere in prioritizing play, even when systemic changes lag.

In this eye-opening discussion, we also dissect the critical difference between play and playful learning, revealing the unparalleled impact genuine play has on developing literacy and social competencies. I reveal tactics for making the benefits of play visible—think creative bulletin boards that track developmental milestones—amidst the pressures of strict school schedules and administrative expectations. Then, we shift gears to discuss how cultivating social and emotional skills in preschoolers sets the foundation for academic success in kindergarten and beyond. By the end of our conversation, it's clear that teaching children how to navigate social interactions and school routines is paramount. For teachers, administrators, and advocates alike, this episode is your invitation to join us in advocating for a playful and enriching start to every child’s educational journey.

Find more from Zeba here:

Podcast: The Kindergarten Cafe Podcast

Instagram @kindergartencafe

Website: https://kindergartencafe.org/ 

Free Purposeful Play Planning Papers: https://kindergartencafe.org/starting-purposeful-play-in-kindergarten/ 

FREE Importance of Play posters: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Importance-of-Play-Posters-4890856

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Imagine your child's tiny hands molding a majestic sandcastle, each grain of sand a stepping stone towards cognitive and emotional development. That's the fascinating world we uncover with Dr. Linda Harrison on Pre-K Spot Talks, where play is more than fun—it's a journey through reflection, refinement, and re-engagement. Max's story of his sandcastle creation is our guide, exemplifying how the three Rs lead to self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Classroom tales of drawing and paper airplanes further illustrate how these learning experiences, underpinned by play, are essential for growing minds. Relive the joy of discovery with us, as we reveal how revisiting old favorites—be it toys, movies, or timeless games—can reinforce adaptability and uncover new layers of enjoyment and understanding.

Step into a space where educators and parents learn the art of subtly shifting a child's focus, unlocking new realms of creativity. Whether it's closing the block area to intrigue little explorers towards the light table, or interjecting with thought-provoking questions to unlock new play patterns, guidance in play is a delicate dance between leading and following. We emphasize skills over content, process over outcome, advocating for a foundation that prepares children for the adventurous learning that lies ahead. Join me, Melissa May, in this enlightening conversation on Pre-K Spot Talks, where we celebrate the playful spirit and the endless learning opportunities that await when we reflect, refine, and joyfully re-engage.

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.

Join me, Melysa Mei, on a journey that began with my own challenges as a student teacher and blossomed into a lifelong mission to champion play-based learning. My story isn't just about the evolution of my classroom; it's a tapestry woven from personal trials, an enduring love for Honda vehicles, and my commitment to the Girl Scouts. I take you through the winding road that led me to realize that traditional elementary education was not my endgame and how embracing play not only transformed my approach to teaching but also brought unbridled joy and cognitive growth into the lives of my students.

This episode is a celebration of the universal language of play and its critical role in early childhood education. I share insights from my time at a Reggio Emilia-inspired school and the innovative play materials that have sparked creativity in young minds. As we wrap up, I extend an open invitation to fellow educators to reach out and share their stories, with a hope to build a community that stands united in the belief that learning should always be a playful adventure. Together, let's continue to explore and promote a world where play is the heartbeat of education.

Know a friend who loves early childhood? Share this podcast.

Lot's more topics, tips, and fun on Instagram @prek.spot

For awesome merch and more info visit Pre-KSpot.com

Even more free content inside out our weekly newsletter! Join today.

We have so many amazing resources and FREEBIES just for you.