Episode 320: Zachary Stier & Tom Rendon

Episode 320: Creativity in Young Children: What Science Tells Us and Our Hearts Know with Dr. Zachary Stier & Tom RendonIn this episode of My EdTech Life, I’m joined by returning guest Dr. Zachary Stier and first-time guest Tom Rendon to explore their new book Creativity in Young Children: What Science Tells Us and Our Hearts Know. We dive deep into the intersection of creativity, child development, advocacy, and play—discussing what it means to truly nurture creativity in early learning environments and why it’s time to center it, not sideline it.Whether you're a parent, educator, policymaker, or lifelong learner, this episode will challenge your assumptions, spark new ideas, and reignite your belief in the power of curiosity and imagination.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & intros 04:20 – Why creativity matters in education 09:45 – Story behind The Power of Play 14:10 – Using creativity as advocacy 21:00 – Designing inclusive classrooms that invite belonging 28:40 – Play and emotional growth 36:00 – Classroom experiences that shaped the book 42:15 – Actionable strategies for creative learning 50:00 – Final reflections & book access 53:10 – Wrap-up📢 Special thanks to our sponsors Eduaide.AI | Book Creator | Yellowdig |  Your support fuels the conversations that matter.🎧 Like what you heard? Visit myedtech.life to explore more amazing episodes that push education forward.✌️ Stay curious, stay connected…Stay Techie.Peel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show