This episode dives into the importance of feeling confident in play-based learning and no longer hiding it because there is this pressure for academics. We talk about trusting yourself as an educator, standing firm in what you know is right for children, and giving yourself permission to fully embrace play. It’s all about shifting from defense to confidence and showing up boldly for kids and their learning.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Christi Here: @dirtlearning or at dirtlearning.com

Take a listen as the wonderful Rae Pica and I talk all about topics in her most recent book Why Play?. This podcast episode explores the importance of risk-taking, big body play, and rough-and-tumble play in childhood development. Kristen and Rae discuss how societal fears often limit children's natural play instincts, sharing personal stories and research on the benefits of embracing risk in early education. They also provide practical advice for educators and parents on fostering a play-positive environment that builds confidence, resilience, and essential motor skills.

Get Rae's book here: Why Play

Use code PBL20 for 20% off (code expires June 31 2025)

In this episode, Kristen reads a chapter in her new book that just released I’m Not Getting Them Ready for Kindergarten- Breaking Tradition in Early Childhood Education. 

Get the Book: Kristen Day's New Book

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

This episode is part two on creativity with Beverly Beck, the creator of 'Happy Little Humans.' With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Beverly combines her passion for social-emotional well-being and creativity to inspire children through art and play. Her approach emphasizes compassion, curiosity, and connection, fostering confidence in children to grow in their own unique ways. Beyond education, Beverly is a mom of three, podcaster, entrepreneur, and award-winning artist, making her perspective both multifaceted and enriching.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Beverly here: @happylittlehumansplay or at happylittlehumans.com

Beverly’s Freebie: Art and Play Activities

This episode is part two on creativity with Beverly Beck, the creator of 'Happy Little Humans.' With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Beverly combines her passion for social-emotional well-being and creativity to inspire children through art and play. Her approach emphasizes compassion, curiosity, and connection, fostering confidence in children to grow in their own unique ways. Beyond education, Beverly is a mom of three, podcaster, entrepreneur, and award-winning artist, making her perspective both multifaceted and enriching.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Beverly here: @happylittlehumansplay or at happylittlehumans.com

Beverly’s Freebie: Art and Play Activities

This episode’s guest is Beverly Beck, the creator of 'Happy Little Humans.' With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Beverly combines her passion for social-emotional well-being and creativity to inspire children through art and play. Her approach emphasizes compassion, curiosity, and connection, fostering confidence in children to grow in their own unique ways. Beyond education, Beverly is a mom of three, podcaster, entrepreneur, and award-winning artist, making her perspective both multifaceted and enriching.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Creativity as Universal and Essential: Both Beverly and Kristen emphasized that creativity is fundamental to everything, from the chair we sit on to entrepreneurial ideas. 

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Beverly here: @happylittlehumansplay or at happylittlehumans.com

Beverly’s Freebie: Art and Play Activities

Dr. Jasmine Moses is an Anti-Bias Early Childhood Educator dedicated to helping parents and teachers raise and teach the next generation. With a background as an early childhood teacher and Non-profit community worker, she is passionate about promoting fairness and equity from a young age. Her work aims to create inclusive and respectful environments for all children and their families. She offers resources, professional development, and support for implementing Anti-Bias and Anti-Racist practices. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Call In, Don’t Call Out: Encouraging conversations around biases by "calling in" rather than "calling out" invites reflection, openness, and growth, creating a collaborative learning environment.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Dr. Jasmine here: @theantibiasece 

Grab Dr. Jasmine's book list here: Free Book List

Jesse Coffino is an educator, author, translator, dad and CEO of Anji Education, Inc. The guy who has spent the last decade introducing True Play and the practices of Anji Play to the world outside of China. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Reflective Practice: Teachers benefit significantly from observing and reflecting on videos of children's play. This practice helps educators understand and improve their teaching strategies.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Jesse here: @anjiplay  or at anjiplay.medium.com or facebook: Anji Play World

Find the Year long scope and sequence here: anjiplay.com

Samuel and Kisa are fierce childhood advocates and the authors of Rethinking Weapon Play in Early Childhood.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Reflect on Decisions: Educators should regularly examine their reasons for saying "no" to certain play, ensuring they align with the children's best interests.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Kisa here: @iam_still_learning or at Contact here

Find Samuel here: honoringchildhood  or at honoring childhood.org

Find their book here: Rethinking Weapon Play in Early Childhood

Kara is a Play and Mindset Coach and your partner-in-fun on the path to healing perfectionism and rekindling your playful, creative spirit. Kara’s message is that play is anything but fluffy; it’s the secret sauce to more health, confidence, creativity, and joy (science says so too!). It's also a powerful healing tool to help us release perfectionism and connect with our inner child.

Key Takeaways: 

1. The Importance of Play in Adulthood: Play is essential not just for children but also for adults. It helps in reconnecting with our inner child, alleviating stress, and fostering creativity.

Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com

Find Kara Here: @theplayfulwarrior

Discover your playful personality here: Take the Quiz