In this episode, Kristen and Veronica talk about process art and why it’s more about the experience than the final product. They share how letting kids explore and create freely builds confidence and creativity. You’ll hear simple tips and real stories that remind us it’s okay to get messy and let go of perfection. It’s all about enjoying the process, not the outcome.   Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Veronica here: @tigerlilypreschoollearning or at tigerlilyschool.com

Kristen chats with Amanda Morgan from Not Just Cute about what real rigor looks like in early childhood. Spoiler: it’s not worksheets or flashcards—it’s deep, meaningful play. This episode will boost your confidence to stand behind play-based learning and push back on the pressure to keep things “cute.”   Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Amanda here: @amanda_notjustcute or at notjustcute.com  Facebook: Not Just Cute - Intentional Whole Child Development Find Amanda’s Course here: Unlock the Power of Play in Your ECE Program Find Amanda’s Book here: NOT JUST CUTE: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood

In this episode, Kristen is joined by Lynn Mulligan of Woodland Learning to share three of her favorite read-aloud books and the magic they bring to classrooms. They dive into the importance of wonder, outdoor learning, and playful approaches that keep literacy joyful and meaningful. Lynn also shares her unique Alphabet Adventures curriculum, blending imagination, nature, and standards to help children fall in love with learning.   Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Lynn Here: woodland_learning or at thespiralbear.com

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:  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.  Creativity as "Confetti": Kristen described creativity as "creative confetti," an energy floating around us. Ideas come unexpectedly, and if not used, they move on to someone else, aligning with Elizabeth Gilbert's concept of "Big Magic." Creativity in Education: Both discussed how the traditional education system stifles creativity, turning children into vessels of academic knowledge without fostering their creative potential. They referenced the importance of creativity in the modern workforce. Creativity as Problem-Solving: Kristen and Beverly see creativity not just as artistic expression but as problem-solving and thinking outside the box.  Personal Stories of Creativity: Both hosts shared personal childhood stories about creativity, highlighting how early experiences with thinking differently (e.g., Kristen’s circus contest) shaped their lifelong approach to creative thinking. 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:  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. Reflect and Unlearn: Just as with anti-bias work, advocating for play-based learning requires ongoing reflection, a willingness to unlearn old perspectives, and a commitment to continuous growth. The Power of Teachers in Shaping Experiences: Teachers hold significant influence in shaping children’s understanding of the world and their biases. Their approach can either reinforce or dismantle harmful stereotypes. Be Comfortable with Discomfort: Growth often happens through discomfort. Educators must lean into uncomfortable conversations and situations to foster meaningful change in their classrooms and communities. 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:  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. Cultural Context of Napping: Kristen and Jesse talk about how in China, extended nap times for children are culturally supported and integrated into the daily routine, contrasting with the U.S. where nap times are often limited. Importance of Care: Successful education systems prioritize care, safety, and responsiveness to individual needs, aiming to create supportive and nurturing learning environments. Global Spread of Anji Play: Anji Play principles, introduced by Jesse Coffino, emphasize joyful discovery and reflection, influencing educational practices globally. 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:  Reflect on Decisions: Educators should regularly examine their reasons for saying "no" to certain play, ensuring they align with the children's best interests. Value Unrestricted Play: Allow diverse forms of play, like weapon play, to support children's learning and development, while maintaining safety. Recognize Adult Biases: Avoid letting personal traumas or biases limit children's play; seek support if needed to manage these feelings. Evolve Practices: Be open to new research and ideas, moving beyond outdated educational practices to better support children's growth. 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:  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. Healing Through Play: Engaging in playful activities can be a healing process, especially for those who have experienced trauma or high levels of stress. Play can help in processing emotions and releasing tension. Barriers to Play: Many adults struggle with incorporating play into their lives due to societal expectations, self-imposed limitations, or the belief that play is not a productive use of time. Practical Tips for Embracing Play: Simple strategies like setting aside time for spontaneous activities, being open to new experiences, and allowing oneself to be imperfect can help adults invite more play into their lives. Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Kara Here: @theplayfulwarrior Discover your playful personality here: Take the Quiz

Anande Ferreira is a mama and pediatric occupational therapist with a special interest in playfulness and sensory integration. She has over 10 years experience supporting children and their families. Upon completion of her Masters degree focused on playfulness, she presented her research at the World Federation of Occupational Therapy Congress and has published in the Occupational Therapy International Journal. On this podcast Her and Kristen talk about what play looks like and what people's expectations are of play.  Key Takeaways:  Misconception of Play: Play can look different for everyone and sometimes caregivers think it should look a certain way with children. This can sometimes create concerns that may not need to be concerns. Play in Diverse Settings: Integrating play in various settings, including structured and unstructured environments, supports different aspects of development and learning. Role of Adults: Adults should facilitate and support play without overly directing it, allowing children the freedom to guide their own play experiences and creativity. Play and Emotional Health: Play provides a safe space for children to manage their emotions, build resilience, and develop coping strategies in a non-threatening way. Do you find yourself wondering what play really looks like? Then this episode is for you.    Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Anande here: @playmoreot Find Anande’s course here: Making sense of It Find Anande’s Book here: Born to Play

Beth Duttera from Aut2ask, an autistic woman-led initiative uplifting autistic voices. Her support survey has over 2k voices from the autism community (inc educators!) speaking on how the current system and supports are failing us all. Listen as Kristen asks questions about autism to help others have a better understanding.  Key Takeaways:  Teacher Training Deficit: Kristen and Beth talk about how many teachers lack formal training about autism, hindering their ability to support autistic students. Diagnostic Challenges: They talk about how teachers struggle to discuss developmental issues with parents due to a lack of diagnostic authority and parental awareness. Harm of Masking: Beth and Kristen discuss how forcing autistic children to mask behaviors like avoiding eye contact or stimming can be damaging. Inclusive Education Need: They advocate how more inclusive practices and better support systems are essential for accommodating all students. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges stigmas and highlights the beauty of neurodiversity in education. Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Beth Here: @aut2ask Take Beth’s Data Survey: Survey Link

Deborah MacNamara is a counselor, on Faculty at the Neufeld Institute and author of Rest Play Grow: Making Sense of Preschoolers (or anyone who acts like one), and Nourish: Connection, Food, and Caring for our Kids (and everyone else we love). Join Deborah and I as we tackle all things boredom.  Key Takeaways:  Boredom Boosts Creativity: Boredom fosters creativity and self-initiated play in children, encouraging imagination. Parental and Educator Roles: Parents and educators should guide children through boredom, supporting their independence and self-entertainment. Imaginative Play Benefits: Encouraging imaginative play with simple toys or self-created games enhances creativity and expression. Balancing Screen Time: Limiting screen time and promoting physical and imaginative play is crucial for children's development. I’m sure at some point in your life you have heard the words “I’m Bored!”. This podcast will cover the ins and outs of boredom and why it can actually be a good thing!  Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Deborah here:  @drdeborahmacnamara or at macnamara.com Find Deborah’s books here: Rest, Play, Grow: Making Sense of Preschoolers (Or Anyone Who Acts Like One) and Nourished: Connection, Food, and Caring for Our Kids (And Everyone Else We Love) Find Deborah's Freebie here: infographic on how you can play out frustration

Alicia Highland and I talk about ways to make environments more inclusive and also touch on what that can look like in nature based settings. Alicia completed her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, with specializations in Environmental Education and Nonprofit Management, and a Master's in Elementary Education. Now that she is taking a break from the classroom to raise her two littles, Alicia is focusing her energies into creating a nature-based education community online and in her hometown. Key Takeaways:  Equity and Inclusion: Alicia and Kristen talk about how to create environments where all children feel safe and have equal access to opportunities by addressing systemic barriers and ensuring inclusion. Challenges: They talk about how early childhood education faces issues like low wages, lack of funding, and insufficient support, which hinder creating equitable educational spaces. Nature-Based Education: Kristen and Alicia cover ways to also help make nature-based education accessible to all children. Actionable Steps: They talk about how educators should educate themselves, use toolkits, have courageous conversations, and be open to feedback to create inclusive learning environments. Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Alicia here: @tinygreenlearning or at www.tiny-green-learning.com Find the implicit bias test: Project Implicit Find the NAEYC toolkit here: Guide

Listen as Prerna and I pick up from where we left off from after our last episode together (Episode 56). We talk about what happens when there is an absence of play and how it can affect behaviors in different ways.  Key Takeaways:  Stress and Escalation of Behaviors: Kristen and Prerna talk about how the absence of play increases stress for both children and adults, leading to heightened and disruptive behaviors. Play is a natural way for children to process their emotions and reduce stress. Connection and Regulation: They talk about how crucial it is to build connections and help children regulate their emotions through play. Role of Educators: Prerna and Kristen give advice to educators about how to be present and respectful of children's play, waiting for invitations to join rather than controlling or directing it. Adjusting Schedules: Learn how some small changes to schedules, such as adding more outdoor playtime, can significantly reduce stress and improve behavior.  If you are struggling with different behaviors with children, this episode will give you lots of insights that can help you shift your mindset and make changes to set children up for success. Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Prerna here: @togetherwegrow.online or at togetherwegrow.online.com Also find Prerna on: Linkedin, Facebook, or YouTube  Listen to the other episode with Prerna here: Episode 56

Join me as I learn a little more on what the Reggio Emilia Approach looks like with Jayda Rivera, the visionary behind Reggio Roots. With her work at a Playschool inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, she aspires to nurture, develop, and guide individuals and educators who share her ideologies.  Key Takeaways:  Understanding the Reggio Emilia Approach: Jayda talks with Kristen about how the Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes the image of the child as an active participant in their own learning. It is child-led, similar to Montessori and play-based learning, focusing on the natural development and expression of children. Environment as an Extension of Home: They talk about how in Reggio Emilia-inspired schools, the environment is designed to feel like a second home. Learn some ways to incorporate things into your space that make it feel cozy. Importance of Observation: Jayda highlights the significance of constantly observing and taking notes on children's behavior and interactions. This helps educators understand each child deeply and tailor the learning environment and activities to their needs and interests. Holistic Child Expression: Jayda and Kristen talk about the idea of the "hundred languages of children" suggesting that children have numerous ways to express themselves beyond verbal communication. Educators should provide various outlets for expression, including art, music, movement, and play. If you aren’t familiar with or have ever been interested in learning more about the Reggio Emilia Approach, this is a great episode to get more info!  Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Jayda here: @reggio_roots

In this episode, I am talking with Mariana Carazo, a Columbia University graduate with a Master's in Curriculum and Teaching and over 20 years in education. Currently, she pioneers a play-based homeschooling approach for her children, embodying her belief in reimagining education. Mariana actively advocates for play as a transformative tool in 21st-century education, both at home and in traditional schooling environments.  Key Takeaways:  The Importance of Play in Learning: Kristen and Mariana emphasize that play is essential for children's cognitive development, mental health, and executive functioning.  Flexible and Meaningful Learning Environments: Mariana talks with Kristen about highlighting the benefits of open-ended play spaces and flexible seating arrangements. These setups allow children to move, choose their seating, and engage with learning materials in a way that suits their individual needs and preferences. Real-World Applications of Learning: They talk about how teaching with a purpose is central to Mariana's approach. She ensures that what children learn is connected to real-life applications, making education more relevant and engaging. Mixed-Age Group Benefits: Mariana and Kristen know the power of mixed-age groups. Older children help younger ones, and all students benefit from the diverse range of skills and perspectives within the group. Have you been toying with the idea of homeschooling or looking into other options besides traditional schooling? Or maybe you are in a traditional school setting and looking to make some adjustments? This episode will give you lots of great info and give you ideas on how to create a more playful space for school age children.  Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Mariana here: @developingminds or at developingmindsus.com Link about Flexible seating here: flexible classroom