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Book cover showing three children playing outdoors. The cover reads: "Let the Children Play: How More Play Will Save Our Schools and Help Children Thrive" by Pasi Sahlberg & William Doyle.

Let the Children Play Book Study in Birmingham, Alabama

If we want teachers to incorporate play in their classrooms, they need to be knowledgeable on the practices that are based on research. Teachers are our first line of defense in keeping play in classrooms. But to do it, they must know about and believe in the benefits. More than just knowing, teachers need to be able to articulate why play is critical for our children. The book study allowed undergraduate students, our future teachers, to access the related research in a way that is developmentally appropriate for preservice teachers.

A woman is seated on the floor in front of a small group of young children, reading a book to them in a classroom setting.

By Geralyn Bywater Advocacy Advocacy Efforts Care Child Care Childhood Community Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) family Grantees Mini-Grant Recipient Parents partnership

Families Write to Legislators During Storytime Event: Kimberly, WI

While the children read books, the families had the opportunity to work with a CCR&R staff to write letters to legislators regarding the issues they face with child care.

Five dolls dressed in white sit on a wooden floor, surrounded by various playtime medical equipment, including a toy stethoscope, blood pressure monitor, and a stuffed animal.

By Geralyn Bywater Access Advocacy Child Development Childhood Community early childhood ECE Equity Grantees Mini Grants Mini-Grant Recipient Play Play for All Playgroup Respect

It’s Us!: Disabled & Neurodivergent Children At Play in Brookings, South Dakota, USA

Disabled & Neurodivergent Children At Play: Play offers a perfect opportunity for young children – and their adults! – to explore concepts related to disability.

Group of people gathered indoors, sitting and interacting in a cozy wooden room.

By Geralyn Bywater Care Child Development Childhood Community Connection Developmentally appropriate practice early childhood engagement family joy Mini Grants Mini-Grant Recipient Nature nature-centered Outdoor Play Parents partnership Play role of adults

Creation of a Small Outdoor Hut in Tábor, Czech Republic

Outdoor Hut: We believe that our programme gives a lovely opportunity for children and their parents to experience real play and support children’s development at their own pace.