Embracing Risky Play at School

In this episode, Lauren sits down with Dr. Mariana Brussoni—Professor at the University of British Columbia, Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership, and lead scientist of the Outside Play Lab at BC Children’s Hospital—to examine the critical role of risky play in schools. Grounded in decades of research, Dr. Brussoni explains what risky play truly means, how it differs from dangerous play, and why uncertainty, challenge, and even the possibility of minor injury are essential components of healthy child development.Drawing from her co-authored book Embracing Risky Play at School, Dr. Brussoni unpacks the six categories of risky play, the importance of time, space, and freedom outdoors, and how educators can use dynamic risk–benefit assessment to create environments that are “as safe as necessary, not as safe as possible.” She offers practical insight into when teachers should step back versus intervene, how to design “Yes Spaces” for higher-risk play, and how schools can respond to injuries in ways that support learning rather than shut down opportunities.Lauren and Dr. Brussoni also explore the connections between the decline of risky play and rising levels of anxiety and mental health challenges among children, as well as the rich cognitive, social, and emotional competencies developed when students climb, balance, build, and explore. The conversation ends with a compelling vision for the future of outdoor education—one where every child experiences meaningful, everyday opportunities for risky play as a fundamental part of their school day.Embracing Risky Play at School Buy here!Book Launch - February 5th, 2026. Join here!UBC Outside Play Teacher Tool