Actions of Play

In this very first episode of Actions of Play, host Heather Jackson is joined by co-author Lisa to share the story behind their book Actions of Play and their shared passion for play schemas.They reflect on collaborating across countries, co-authoring entirely over Zoom, and how their aligned values in play-based, inquiry-driven learning shaped their work. The conversation explores what play schemas are, why they matter, and how they can transform the way educators observe, plan, and respond to children’s play.Heather and Lisa also share practical ways to connect play schemas to everyday experiences, including using children’s literature to deepen learning and engagement.Whether you’re new to play schemas or looking to strengthen your practice, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and real classroom connections - plus what’s next for their work supporting educators and families.BOOKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEActions of Play- RedLeaf PressThreads of Thinking- Cathy NutbrownFrom Theory to Practice- Susan StaceyDragons Love Tacos by Adam RubinTacos Fall ApartTake It ApartI Worked Really Hard on ThatLINKSThe Sunflower School: https://thesunflowerschool.ca/ Lisa Agogliati is the lead pedagogista at the National Child Research Centre in Washington, DCBoulder Journey SchoolCindy Green- InstagramEarly Childhood Investigations Webinar SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you found this episode valuable, we invite you to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more educators who are committed to deepening their practice and creating meaningful learning experiences for children.CONNECT WITH HEATHERInstagram: @thesunflower_studioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-jackson-17b0b455/ Take a Virtual Tour: Click Here

In this debut episode of Actions of Play, host Heather Jackson —an early childhood educator with over 40 years of experience—invites you into the inspiring world of play-based learning through a Reggio Emilia approach lens.Broadcasting from the Reggio-inspired Sunflower School in Orangeville, Ontario, Heather shares the story of her journey—from her first introduction to Reggio-inspired practices in 1998 to building a thriving, child-centred learning community that now spans multiple locations and supports hundreds of children and educators.This episode offers a heartfelt introduction to the philosophy that has shaped her life’s work: seeing children as capable, curious, and full of potential. Heather reflects on her evolution as an educator, the power of mentorship, and how embracing the role of “teacher as researcher” transformed her approach to early childhood education.You’ll also get a glimpse into what’s ahead on the podcast, including:Real stories from educatorsProject work from Reggio-inspired classroomsInsights into play-based, child-led learningPractical reflections for educators looking to deepen their practiceWhether you’re an early childhood educator, leader, or simply passionate about meaningful learning, this episode sets the foundation for a thoughtful and inspiring journey into the actions of play. Tune in and explore what’s possible when we truly listen to children.LINKSThe Sunflower School: https://thesunflowerschool.caSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWWe invite you to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more educators who are committed to deepening their practice and creating meaningful learning experiences for children.CONNECT WITH HEATHERInstagram: @thesunflower_studioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-jackson-17b0b455/ Take a Virtual Tour: Click Here