What Counts as Play? episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 11, 2026 · 15 MIN

What Counts as Play?

from The Intentional ECE · host Cathy Belgrave

What counts as play - and how do we recognize it? In this episode, Cathy reflects on several definitions of play and uses them as a starting point to explore the many ways children engage with the world through play. From energetic social play to quiet moments of exploration, noticing these experiences more closely helps us understand what children are curious about and how they are making sense of and adapting to their world. As educators, this awareness allows us to support the development of children’s autonomy and agency through play, helping them see themselves as capable, confident participants in their own learning and in the world around them.Suzanne AxelssonPlayaristaDr. Stuart BrownPeter GrayThe Intentional Educator JournalIG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

What counts as play - and how do we recognize it? In this episode, Cathy reflects on several definitions of play and uses them as a starting point to explore the many ways children engage with the world through play. From energetic social play to quiet moments of exploration, noticing these experiences more closely helps us understand what children are curious about and how they are making sense of and adapting to their world. As educators, this awareness allows us to support the development of children’s autonomy and agency through play, helping them see themselves as capable, confident participants in their own learning and in the world around them.Suzanne AxelssonPlayaristaDr. Stuart BrownPeter GrayThe Intentional Educator JournalIG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

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What Counts as Play?

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This episode was published on March 11, 2026.

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What counts as play - and how do we recognize it? In this episode, Cathy reflects on several definitions of play and uses them as a starting point to explore the many ways children engage with the world through play. From energetic social play to...

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