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Play isn’t just what kids do when they’re bored—it’s how they learn everything! This workshop helps you see the learning moments in the midst of play, from problem solving to social skills. We’ll look at how to support children’s natural curiosity without interrupting their flow and how to shift from "activity" to "learning" in your classroom. Expect hands-on activities, video observations of play, and a deeper understanding of the critical role play has in early development.

What the heck are loose parts, and why does everyone keep talking about them? In this class, we’ll dig into what makes something a loose part (spoiler: almost anything!) and how these magical bits and bobs can turn kids into creative powerhouses. You’ll play with materials, figure out how to get your hands on free and affordable loose parts and learn how loose parts can boost all kinds of skills while keeping kids engaged and having fun.

Why plan complicated activities that fizzle out in minutes when you can set up a loose parts invitation that sparks curiosity, creativity, and hours of engagement? Learn how to ditch the “activity mindset” and embrace the beauty of invitations—play setups that inspire exploration without a rigid plan. We’ll practice designing invitations, discuss the difference between open- and closed-ended materials, and swap out those tired toys for loose parts that truly captivate.

Loose parts aren’t just for indoors! Grab your hat and sunscreen because we’re taking this show outside. Learn how to create nature inspired play invitations, find the best materials for outdoor setups, and tie kids’ interests to the natural world. Forget Pinterest —your outdoor classroom will embrace the perfectly imperfect charm of a creative junkyard, where every stick and stone tells a story. Plus, you’ll walk away with ideas to keep outdoor play fresh and engaging year round.

Why do kids line things up, dump stuff out, or spin like tiny tornadoes? It’s not random—it’s schema! These behaviors are how children make sense of their world. Often seen as disruptive, these patterns are actually signs of deep learning. In this session, we’ll uncover what these actions mean, why they’re vital for development, and how to work with them (not against them). You’ll leave with practical tips for recognizing and supporting schema in action—turning those "chaotic" moments into opportunities for growth.

Process art is where the magic happens, and it’s all about the experience, not the outcome. We’ll talk about what process art actually is, how to ditch the “Pinterest-perfect” mindset, and why this approach is so beneficial for children. You’ll explore how focusing on the creative journey encourages problem-solving, decision-making, and self-expression. Plus, you’ll roll up your sleeves and try some fun, hands-on experiences that will make you rethink your hours spent pre-cutting and embrace the beauty of random materials instead!

Ready to level up your process art game? Now that you’ve ditched the pre-cut shapes and embraced the mess this session tackles all the things that make teachers nervous: What will families think? How do you break free from cookie-cutter crafts? You’ll also troubleshoot common barriers, get your hands messy, create a plan to make process art a regular part of your day, and leave with creative ways to make art time more meaningful—and more fun—for everyone.

Clean hands shouldn’t come at the cost of rich learning. Messy play isn’t just about making a mess (though there’s plenty of that, too). You’ll dive into sensory activities, tackle cleanup challenges, and discover why nature is the ultimate sensory experience. By exploring textures, smells, and the great outdoors, kids develop critical sensory and motor skills while making sense of the world around them. Messy play is more than chaos —it’s connection, curiosity, and creativity. Warning: you may leave covered in flour or mud.

Conflict doesn’t have to end in tears—for you or the kids. This workshop is your guide to transforming “He took my shovel!” into opportunities for growth and connection. You’ll practice strategies for guiding conflict resolution, understand how their brains work during meltdowns, and explore empathy building techniques that actually work. Plus, we’ll dive into real-life scenarios so you feel ready to tackle anything. With a sprinkle of humor, you’ll leave ready to handle even the most epic sandbox showdowns.

Climbing UP the slide, jumping off rocks, and testing their limits might make some adults sweat, but it’s exactly what they need. We’ll explore what risky play is, how to tell the difference between risk and hazard, and why it’s so important for development. Don’t worry —we’ll also watch some videos so you can practice not panicking when kids do something daring. Remember, being brave means being scared, but doing it anyway :)

“Be careful!” might be your go-to phrase, but is it helping or holding kids back? In this session, we’ll practice saying things that actually support risk-taking, explore how to encourage bravery without overprotecting, and discover strategies for keeping kids safe while letting them take risks. We’ll also tackle common barriers—like our own fears and societal pressures—that can prevent kids from exploring their limits. By the end, you’ll have the tools and confidence to create an environment where risk-taking is not only encouraged but celebrated as a vital part of development.

Imagine a classroom where kids hear “yes” more often than “no.” It’s not a dream—it’s a reality that can be created with a few thoughtful strategies! In this workshop, we’ll explore how to build yes-friendly environments that foster trust, independence, and creativity. We’ll discuss ways to say yes while still setting clear, respectful limits, and practice using yes as a tool for boosting motivation and problem-solving skills. You’ll leave with fresh ideas on how saying YES can empower children to make decisions, take risks, and develop a deeper sense of ownership over their learning.