Children Learn How to Learn on the Playground

Dr. Rhea sits down with Summer Belloni again to discuss the importance of advocacy for parents and educators in schools and the barriers they may face. They also discuss "practice what you preach" and why having access to recess, child-directed play, and the outdoors is the place where children learn how to learn. Summer Belloni, a former teacher with experience in elementary and middle school education, is passionate about getting kids outside as much as possible.  She taught in both public and private schools in California and Louisiana before relocating to Texas where she managed a community engagement website for families.  Summer’s advocacy for increased access to recess in Midland’s elementary schools led to her involvement with the Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC) and a recommendation for policy change. She kept the community informed and shared resources with her social media group, Texans for Recess.  Although the recommended policy wasn’t officially adopted, her efforts resulted in 24 out of 26 elementary schools in Midland increasing their recess time. With a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in education specializing in educational leadership, Summer’s research focused on teachers’ beliefs, values, and attitudes towards elementary recess.  She has been married for 23 years and is the mother to two boys. She and her husband continue to prioritize and nurture their family’s love for the outdoors and value of childhood instructed play.  Other resources mentioned in this episode: LiiNK’s Weather Guidelines Global School Play Day