“Why do they keep throwing things?!”
“I don’t know how to capture children’s interests… they’re just playing.”
“They keep doing the same thing over and over!”
“What do you mean spinning in circles is Play?!”

If these questions sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many early childhood educators wonder about the behaviours they see every day—behaviours that are often rich with meaning. To understand them, we need to look more closely at how children play and what those actions are telling us. That’s where schematic play comes in.

In this workshop, we will explore the powerful lens of play schemas and how they help us interpret children’s interests, patterns, and behaviours. We’ll dive into common schemas such as trajectory, rotation, transporting, enveloping, enclosing, positioning, connecting, transforming, and more. Through observation, reflection, and hands-on examples, we’ll practice identifying possible play schemas and brainstorm responsive ways to support, extend, and scaffold these play invitations.

When we begin to see the stories embedded in children’s actions, play comes alive—illuminating their thinking, curiosity, and drive to explore. Together, we’ll toss ideas around, spin a few strategies, and piece them all together in a session designed to reignite your wonder for play.

Let’s unravel the meaning behind children’s play… and have some fun while we’re at it!

Workshop Goals: 

• Identify the meaning and value of schematic play and play schemas
• Examine the various play schemas observed in early childhood environments
• Create responsive practices to support children in various play schemas

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
• PD funding and RT funding available to eligible participants.
• Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
• All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
• This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
• You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
• A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
• All tickets are non-refundable. Transfers may be requested with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.
• E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.