Ep. 30: Amplifying Childhood: Embracing Noise, Play, and Learning with Dr. Beverly Alford

I have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Beverly Alford on today's episode of Reimagine Childhood.  Beverly is a staunch advocate for meaningful play. An Associate Professor of Early Childhood, her focus is on children, ages birth through age seven years. She is particularly fascinated by how young children develop in play-based, non-traditional education settings, as well as the effects of standardized learning practices on young children. Her background in early childhood is varied and extensive, rich in experiences within both the public and private sectors.   In this podcast episode, Beverly and I discuss the importance of noise in the classroom and the need for children to have opportunities to be loud and expressive. We emphasize the value of play and the negative effects of stifling children's natural exuberance. Beverly goes on to suggest creating a balance between quiet and noisy activities in the classroom and encourages teachers to observe and listen to children's play. We also discuss the societal pressure on parents to keep their children quiet and well-behaved in public places. Beverly and I make a point to encourage a shift in mindset to support childhood and make an effort to understand children's individual needs. We suggest that the adults should model appropriate behavior and create a rhythm of noise levels in the classroom to help the students understand and follow when a noise-level transition needs to be made. Beverly concluded by reminding us all to prioritize play and outdoor time and to recognize the individuality and pace of children's learning.  I was reminded today that children learn best through meaningful play and play is often noisy! There are definitely times that require a bit of restraint but I wonder sometimes if we could back off a little bit and allow children to fully experience their environment – even in their noise level!  Have you ever just stopped…actually paused everything to LISTEN to your classroom?  I'm going to challenge you to do that this week – stop, stand still, and just listen to your classroom – do you hear life-giving laughter, conversation, and FUN?  What conversations did you overhear?  What arguments or conflicts did you hear?  Did you hear singing or humming?  Did you hear laughter and giggles, or crying and sniffling?  I hope that the next time you feel like your classroom is SO LOUD…that you'll pause for a moment and just listen.  Most likely, that pause will cause the noise level in your classroom to naturally decrease as the children wonder why you're so still!     You can connect with Beverly through her website, Curating Play, and her Instagram You might also like this short article on the value of noise in the classroom. As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.