I’d love to hear from others doing similar work — what’s worked for you?

I've just launched Family Explorers — a free, community-funded program where parents attend professional development sessions with their kids to learn how to run their own playgroups.

www.bushkindy.com.au/perspectives...

Yes I feel the same way! It's exciting to get involved in play especially if you are a playful person. Sometimes I just play a few meters away from the children on my own and then they gravitate towards me and then they are curious as to what I'm doing.

Some children naturally gravitate to you or their peers and others need space. Interpreting this through honed skills in observation and understanding of developmental psychology allows you to learn more about each child and how they like to play.

Meaningful interactions when carefully executed only can enhance play opportunities. An experienced person who works in and with play spaces understands when and how this happens. It's like a dance. A gentle sway between child, peers and adults.

My view is that children thrive with meaningful connections with capable others. When in the zone of proximal development children are in the space between what a learner can do without assistance and what a learner can do with adult guidance or in collaboration with more capable peers.

Thank you for the add! Many inspirational people on this list, thanks for putting it together ❤️