The Playful Lens

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). This episode of The Playful Lens brings us together with Robbie O'Connell and Dr. Colman Noctor for a thoughtful discussion about homework in primary school. Robbie and Colman both challenge the idea that traditional worksheet homework should continue unchanged, arguing for more flexibility, better communication and learning that better fits children’s real lives.In this conversation, we explore who homework helps, who it hurts and whether schools should be asking a bigger question: what is homework actually for?You can find Dr. Colman Noctor on Instagram @noctorcolman and Robbie O’Connell also on Instagram @positiveprimaryprincipal Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In the final episode of Season One, we welcome back Dr. Jacqueline Fallon to discuss the professionalism of teachers engaged in playful pedagogies. Jacqueline emphasises that play is often misunderstood as risky, mainly due to fears around professional reputation and perceptions of chaos. She explores the fact that the use of playful pedagogies highlight the importance of professionalism, knowledge and intentionality behind playful practices and learning experiences.Dr. Fallon speaks about key professional skills including understanding affordances and sustained shared thinking.The episode also discusses the significance of leadership support, especially principals acting as umbrellas in order to foster safe environments for encouraging playful and engaging learning experiences for all children. Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). The first season of The Playful Lens podcast has almost come to an end, featuring conversations with phenomenal guests and exploring the theme of play and playfulness from various angles. The key takeaways include the importance of play for everyone, the reassurance and freedom it provides, and the integration of play into the curriculum.

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing)In this episode we are joined by assistant professor, educator & author Dr. Lori Desautels. She speaks to us about what happens inside our nervous systems when we play. Play is deep learning — a vital way our brains grow, process and connect. If you’re guilty of using your imagination for worry instead of wonder then we think you are really going to enjoy this episode.Lori's inspiring books 'Connections Over Compliance', 'Intentional Neuroplasticity', 'How May I Serve You' and 'Body & Brain Brilliance' are a must read for all educators.Find out more about Lori's work at REVELATIONS IN EDUCATION – Exploring Neuroscience in Education with Dr. Lori DesautelsFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In her current role as an SNA in a nurture room - a relatively new concept in Irish education - Anne-Marie Coffey emphasises the importance of providing a safe space for children who may have experienced trauma or social difficulties. Play serves as a therapeutic tool in these environments, allowing children to express their emotions and develop coping mechanisms.Nurture rooms are designed to be a sanctuary for children, where they can gradually open up at their own pace. By incorporating play into their daily routine, children can learn to navigate their emotions and build resilience.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this engaging episode, Prof. Emer Ring and Dr. Lisha O’Sullivan from Mary Immaculate College in Limerick chat to us about the vital role of play in children's learning and development and the rights of children to play. They explore the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach, the importance of environment and practical strategies for integrating play into the curriculum. They also delve into their must-read paper called “Play, Learning and Teaching in a Redeveloped Primary Curriculum”, written for the NCCA which you can read here: https://ncca.ie/media/bw1j0jxg/play_learning-and-teaching-in-a-redeveloped-primary-curriculum-25.pdf Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). This important conversation explores the need to rethink success and education. In this episode, we get down to business. A very honest fan of crafts and teacher directed art here-but what Stephanie Seidler from We Skoolhouse had to say about the value of process art over directed art was simply enlightening! Best of all...this makes teaching art easier, because instead of scrolling or searching online for a 'lovely art idea' we are working with children to tap into their own unique creative genius! The discussion highlights decision-making, choice and the significance of working with as opposed to working for children. Check out Early Childhood Resources for Teachers & Parents (Ages 0-6) | We Skoolhouse for more information on Stephanie's work. Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this insightful interview, Fiona Kirkland from Play Scotland shares the importance of play in children's learning, the legal rights to play and how to integrate playful pedagogy into schools. Discover practical strategies, affordances, the play cycle and the transformative power of play for educators and children alike.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] #podcast #anewperspective #themagicofmovement #playpedagogy #playscotland https://www.playscotland.org/ file:///Users/gilliancorbally/Desktop/Scotlands%20Play%20Vision%20Statement%20and%20Action%20Plan%202025-2030.pdf https://education.gov.scot/media/3bjpr3wa/realisingtheambition.pdf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Qfqjy4IHr0 https://www.playcycle.co.uk/ 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Maggie Wilman & Ashli Givens from Rooted in Play, join Gillian & Helena to chat about the creative magic of loose parts play. Rooted in Play is a non profit organisation based in Tampa, Florida. It has simple goals- protect child led play and help everyone to see the value in it! This conversation explores the significance of loose parts, challenges with organised sports, the importance of observing play and the play ecosystem.You can find out more about Rooted In Play on rootedinplay.orgFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Amy Collins, Speech and Language Therapist, joins Gillian and Helena and delves into the transformative power of play in supporting neurodivergent children. Through insightful discussions, they uncover how playful interactions not only foster connection and regulation but also allow children to express themselves genuinely within their unique worlds. This episode offers valuable perspectives on embracing diversity in play and understanding its critical role in nurturing a child's development and well-being.You can find Amy on Instagram @amycslt Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this insightful conversation Mia & Lauren Sundstrom, the CEO & COO of The National Institute for Play, unpack the power of play across childhood and adulthood — the science, the healing potential, the impact on learning and the small playful habits that enrich adult life. From Dr. Brown’s legacy to everyday playful moments, this episode explores how play shapes our wellbeing, our classrooms and our lives.National Institute for Play: https://nifplay.org/Recess, Stress, and Cortisol Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40723058/Chamber of Connection Report: https://www.chamberofconnection.org/the-six-points-of-connection-2026Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Dr. Rebecca Quinn discusses the critical role of play and movement in child development and education. She emphasises that play is not merely recreational but is essential for regulating a child's nervous system and enhancing learning. Dr. Quinn shares insights on how teachers can implement movement in classrooms, the neuroscience behind why movement aids learning and the importance of creating spaces for movement in schools. She also addresses common concerns from educators about managing movement in the classroom as well as the need for a cultural shift in educational practices to embrace play-based learning. Rebecca concludes with a reminder that movement is essential for learning and therapy, not just an optional activity.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!NCSE Relate Policy - Regulation First: https://www.ncse.ie/school-leaders/resources-for-school-leaders/relate/ We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). This important conversation highlights how principals’ attitudes toward play shape school culture, teacher mindsets and meaningful relationships across the school community. Dr. Siobhán Kennan Fitzgerald reflects on bringing playful pedagogies into her school—embracing outdoor learning, strengthening connections and modelling playfulness as a school leader.It explores how play supports classroom management and behaviour, confidence and self-expression, while also acknowledging the challenges and rewards of embedding a playful culture. The discussion touches on the healing power of play and the personal experiences that inform a principal’s playful approach.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this insightful interview, Dr. Mary O'Kane explores the critical role of play in children's mental health, resilience and development. She discusses the impact of social media, smartphones, overprotective parenting and societal attitudes on play and well-being, offering practical advice for parents, teachers and caregivers.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Angela Cummins, a special education teacher, shares her insights on the importance of play in autism education. With over two decades of experience, Angela discusses her unique teaching environment, the significance of building relationships with students and the role of play in fostering learning and development. She emphasises the need for inclusivity, life skills and the magic moments that occur in the classroom, all while maintaining a playful and engaging atmosphere for her students.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Tracy McElheron shares her extensive experience in early childhood education, emphasising the critical role of play in child development. With over 25 years in the field, Tracy discusses how play has evolved over the years, highlighting three main areas of change: place, time and the nature of toys. She reflects on her own childhood experiences of unstructured play and contrasts them with the more organised and supervised play of today, which she believes limits children's creativity and problem-solving skills. Tracy passionately advocates for the importance of reconnecting with the essence of play, not just for children but for adults as well, as a means to foster relationships and enhance well-being.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected] 

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).Edel Lawlor shares her journey from a social care practitioner to a play therapist, highlighting the therapeutic power of play and its impact on children's well-being. She outlines how children tell their stories through play and discusses the decline in children's play, the importance of play for parents, and the benefits of play therapy for teenagers and adults with disabilities. Edel also gives advice on how getting back to basics is often what our children really need and how her work has led her to appreciate the life changing power of simple experiences.Here is a link to Edel's inspirational Ted Talk: Unconditional Kindness Towards ChildrenFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨The episode is an invitation to imagine the impact of the disappearance of play from primary schools, emphasizing the loss of curiosity, belonging, cognitive depth, joy and professional identity. It calls for the protection and promotion of playful pedagogy as a way of deepening learning and creating alive classrooms.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy,Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing)In this enlightening episode Siobhán Prendiville, a child and adolescent psychotherapist with a specialisation in play therapy, shares insights on the therapeutic powers of play for everyone and the role of teachers in facilitating and observing children's play. She emphasizes the importance of valuing and understanding the individual experiences of play and highlights the link between play and curriculum objectives. The conversation explores the transformative power of play in education, well-being and personal growth. It emphasizes the experiential nature of play, its therapeutic benefits, and its role in building relationships and regulating emotions. The importance of creating a safe and playful environment is highlighted, along with the value of ongoing learning and embracing change.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).In this enlightening episode of The Playful Lens, Dr. Joanna Fortune returns to discuss the importance of playfulness for adults. The conversation explores how play can enhance relationships, combat burnout and foster creativity. Dr. Fortune emphasises the need for adults to reconnect with their playful selves, offering practical tips and insights on integrating play into everyday life. The episode highlights the significance of play in education, workplace culture and personal relationships, encouraging listeners to embrace playfulness as a vital aspect of their well-being.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and [email protected]

In this episode of The Playful Lens, Regina Igoe, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, discusses the significance of play therapy and psychoeducation in child development. ✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulnes and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing )SummaryIn this episode of The Playful Lens, Regina Igoe, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, discusses the significance of play and psychoeducation in child development. She emphasises the importance of understanding typical child behaviour, the role of play in exploring emotions, and how children learn conflict resolution through play. Regina also highlights the need for adults to facilitate a safe and supportive play environment, allowing children to express their emotions and build resilience. The conversation delves into the complexities of aggression and meanness in play, the impact of parenting on children's play experiences, and the necessity of creating a play-friendly environment at home and in schools.You will find more information about Regina and the parenting programmes she is involved in here:

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).The episode explores the shift towards playful learning in a Redeveloped Curriculum, the understanding of play in the curriculum, evidence of learning and assessment, professional responsibility and reflection, and the concepts of consistency and adaptability in teaching.It emphasizes the integration of assessment into the teaching process and the importance of being responsive to the context in teaching.The conversation covers the role of the progression continuum as a tool for teachers, the fundamental right of play in childhood, the curriculum's relationship with play, the importance of professional judgment and reflective practice and the message from the inspectorate.TakeawaysPlayful learning makes assessment more visible, not less.Consistency is about showing up and being responsive to the context, not about doing the same thing as everyone else.Assessment is integral to learning and should be built into the teaching process. Progression Continuum as a tool for teachersPlay as a fundamental right of childhood

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).In this episode, Helena discusses her journey to becoming a play therapist, the significance of play therapy in addressing trauma, and the holistic approach to child healing. She emphasizes the importance of personal development for therapists, the process of play therapy, and the role of toys and symbolism in helping children express their emotions. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health and the need for parents and teachers to prioritize their own well-being to effectively support children and adolescents.EAS/Counselling - Irish National Teachers' OrganisationIAPTPThe Children's Therapy CentreFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨In this episode of The Playful Lens, Debbie Cullinane discusses the transformative power of play in education and child development. She emphasizes the importance of sensory play, movement, and understanding children's unique sensory preferences. The conversation highlights how play fosters relationships, supports learning, and contributes to overall wellbeing. Debbie also addresses misconceptions about sensory play being exclusive to neurodivergent children and advocates for its inclusion in all educational settings. The episode concludes with practical tips for integrating play into daily routines and the significance of creating joyful experiences for children.00:00Introduction to Play Therapy and Its Importance02:47The Value of Play in Child Development05:48Understanding Sensory Play and Its Benefits09:03The Role of Movement in Learning12:14Navigating Sensory Preferences in Children14:52Creating Inclusive Play Environments18:00The Impact of Sensory Play on Well-being20:49Integrating Play into Educational Settings24:05Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Play Therapy31:10The Importance of Sensory Play for Regulation32:47Differentiation in Learning Through Play34:37Integrating Play into the Curriculum38:32Creative Approaches to Learning41:21The Need for Sensory Breaks43:12Misconceptions About Sensory Play46:58Valuing Sensory Play for All Children48:20Building Relationships Through Play49:04Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens, Bernie Smyth shares her insights on the importance of play in education. She discusses how play can be a powerful tool for learning, allowing children to express themselves freely and develop their creativity. Bernie emphasises the need for teachers to create engaging and safe environments where students can thrive. She also addresses the challenges teachers face in incorporating play into their classrooms and the importance of mentoring and collaboration among educators. The conversation culminates in a beautiful metaphor about finding the star within each child, highlighting the potential for growth and learning through play.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.In this solo episode of The Playful Lens, we pause to reflect on the powerful insights shared by our guests so far. From the role of play in the new primary curriculum to practical classroom strategies, parental engagement, and the link between play and wellbeing, this 15-minute recap distils key messages for teachers, parents, and school leaders. Tune in for inspiration and actionable ideas to champion play as a core pedagogy.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing).Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens podcast, Kate Maher, founder of Dúlra Cill Dara (@dulra_cill_dara) discusses the importance of outdoor play and the forest school ethos in childhood development. She shares her journey in establishing Dúlra Cill Dara, the benefits of nature-based education and the challenges faced by modern parents and educators. The conversation highlights the need for unstructured play, risk-taking and the role of language and folklore in connecting children with their environment. Kate emphasises the importance of creating safe spaces for children to explore and learn and her vision for equitable access to nature for all children.www.dulracilldara.ieFollow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode, Dr. Clara Fiorentini (@claramariafiorentini) discusses her journey in literacy education, emphasising the importance of play in early literacy development. She looks at the current rush to teach phonics in early childhood education and advocates for a whole school approach that values language development over immediate reading skills. Clara highlights the need for cultural shifts in how literacy is perceived and taught, encouraging educators to slow down and focus on the process of learning rather than just the end product. She also addresses the challenges of initiative overload and teacher burnout, urging teachers to reflect on their practices and prioritise what truly benefits their students.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode, we answer questions asked by other teachers. We discuss the significance of play in education, particularly focusing on its impact on teacher wellbeing and children's engagement. We explore the misconceptions surrounding play and learning, emphasising that play is not just for children but is essential for teachers as well. The conversation highlights practical strategies for incorporating play into the classroom, even in schools where it is not part of the culture. We also address concerns about maintaining control and structure while being playful in the classroom, ultimately advocating for a shift in mindset towards a more playful and engaging learning environment.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and [email protected]

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this episode of The Playful Lens podcast, Michelle Mannix (@aistearmuinteoir) shares her extensive experience in teaching and her research on parental involvement in play-based learning. She discusses the importance of play in education, the challenges of changing perceptions among parents and the benefits of engaging parents in the learning process. Michelle reflects on her journey, the insights gained from her thesis and the practical applications of her research in the classroom. The conversation emphasises the need for a shift in mindset regarding play and learning, advocating for a more integrated approach that values both process and product in education.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing). In this conversation, Dr. Joanna Fortune discusses the significance of play in both childhood and adulthood, emphasising its role in mental health, relationships and education. She explores how play fosters connection, creativity and emotional well-being, and provides practical tips for adults to reconnect with their playful side. The discussion highlights the importance of curiosity and playfulness in learning environments and how these elements can enhance teacher-student relationships and family dynamics.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), in this engaging conversation, Tina McLaughlin (@teacherofdotes) , a primary school teacher and play advocate, shares her insights on the significance of play in early childhood education. She emphasises that play is not just a break from learning but a vital component of children's development. Tina discusses the challenges educators face in fostering a playful learning environment, the importance of trusting children's instincts and the need for flexibility in lesson planning. The conversation also highlights the value of building relationships through play and the necessity of professional dialogue among teachers to support playful learning. Ultimately, Tina's passion for play shines through as she encourages schools to embrace the naturalness of play in their teaching practices.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), we engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jacqueline Fallon where she discusses the transformative role of play in education, particularly within the new Primary Curriculum Framework. She emphasises that children have both a right and a desire to play, which is essential for their learning and development. The discussion covers various types of play, the importance of child agency and how play can be integrated into senior classes despite common misconceptions. Dr. Fallon reassures teachers about the value of play in fostering resilience and well-being, ultimately advocating for a shift in educational practices to embrace play as a fundamental aspect of learning.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helenahttps://www.siolta.ie/https://cslstudy.ie/news/https://ncca.ie/media/5016/preparation-for-teaching-and-learning.pdfhttps://ncca.ie/media/bw1j0jxg/play-learning-and-teaching-in-a-redeveloped-primary-curriculum.pdfhttps://dailypapert.com/hard-fun/

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), our very first episode delves into the significance of play in education and its impact on children's mental health and well-being. We share our personal journeys with play, discussing how our teaching philosophies have evolved to embrace play and playful learning. Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoy Gillian and Helena

✨Shaping minds, connections and creativity through play, playfulness and playful learning for all✨Welcome to The Playful Lens - the podcast where curiosity, creativity and coffee fuel big conversations about learning, wellbeing and play.Hosted by Gillian (@the_glitter_and_coffee_teacher) and Helena (@experiential.wellbeing), each episode explores how play shapes who we are; in classrooms, communities and beyond. Expect thoughtful chats, laughter and plenty of playful inspiration.Follow the conversation on Instagram @the_playful_lens_podcast and subscribe wherever you listen!We hope you enjoyGillian and Helena