For our 2022 IN PERSON Conference on the Value of Play: THE NATURE OF PLAY keynote kickoff on April 3, J. Drew Lanham, PhD, shared his PLAY wisdom with his presentation, “Passion as Playtime — Why Loving What We Do Can Save Us.” It is a powerful message about being re-inspired to play, about claiming… Read more »
In 2018, Harrison Pinckney, PhD, moderated a groundbreaking keynote panel of experts in a discussion on what play looks like for Black youth. This year, Dr. Pinckney returns with new colleagues to broaden the discussion as we continue to work towards a better understanding of the racial implications of race on play. “Expanding the Conversation… Read more »
This session provides simple and inexpensive strategies to support children’s physical and social-emotional health. It emphasizes inclusive activities and partnerships to help caregivers engage children in PLAYful, language-rich learning opportunities. “Playful Activities to Support Whole Child Health” This featured session explores playful learning resources to help caregivers support the physical and social-emotional health of children…. Read more »
In a world of commercial toys, how can we design resources that support the mental wellness and health of children? “Play, Design and Mental Health” with play futurist Yesim Kunter There is a growing need of resources that are playfully dedicated to the wellbeing of children. There is no question that there is a huge decline… Read more »
For our 2021 Virtual Conference on the Value of Play: PLAY IS SURVIVAL keynote kickoff on April 2, we brought together three incredible thought leaders for our annual “Power PLAYer Panel.” Our three panelists tackle the 2021 theme, particularly as it relates to issues of diversity, access, equity and inclusion. The dialogue is rich and… Read more »
Exploring the shared living experiences of Black girls and women through play is vital. The hashtag #BlackGirlMagic is used to express not only excellence and brilliance of black women but has led young girls and women to inspire one another, activate contextual awareness and grow in power together. #BlackGirlMagic Mondays Join host Corliss Outley, PhD,… Read more »
How does play fit within the higher education mission? And what prevents academia from realizing its benefits? “Professors at Play: Bringing Fun and Joy into Higher Education” with Lisa K. Forbes & David Thomas Friday, April 23 2:00pm ET/11:00am PT While play and elementary education have a long and positive history, post-secondary education has largely… Read more »
The Youth Outdoor Policy Playbook is a joint effort of the Children and Nature Network, the Meridian Institute, National Caucus of Environmental Legislators, Outdoor Alliance for Kids and North American Association of Environmental Education. As part of the 2020 Online Conference on the Value of Play, representatives of each organization (detailed below) discussed the Youth… Read more »