Play is not just a fun activity for young children, it’s the foundation for their learning and development. In this episode, I dive into how play shapes social, emotional, and academic growth in PreK learners, with insights from some of Detroit Country Day Prek4 teachers who share their unique perspectives and classroom strategies. My guests: Marta Krussman, Jordan Woodley, and Carrie McDonald explore the balance between structured and unstructured play, and how these experiences foster creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration among children. The conversation highlights the importance of creating an environment where children feel safe to express themselves, navigate their emotions, and build relationships with their peers. Join us as we unpack the transformative power of play in early childhood education and why it matters so much for our youngest learners.

Slowing down and being present in the moment can significantly enhance our creativity, and that's the core message we explore with Dr. Jill Walsh in this mini episode. Recorded right after her keynote at Detroit Country Day School, Dr. Walsh—a sociologist from Boston University—shares her insights on how over-scheduled students often turn to technology to fill their downtime, missing out on the benefits of personal connection and finding creativity in pause. This episode features a thought-provoking discussion with Celeste Mahabir, Detroit Country Day School's Upper School Academic Dean, where we emphasize the importance of creating classroom environments that allow students to reflect, engage, and just be present. We dive into how taking the time to pause and disconnect from technology can lead to deeper thoughts and greater self-discovery. Join us as we reflect on the crucial role of presence in meaningful learning experiences and the impact it has on student creativity.

The heart of this podcast episode revolves around the integration of physical and mental wellness in education, encapsulated in Detroit Country Day School’s motto, "Mens Sana in Corpore Sano," which translates to "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body." We dive into how educators at DCDS are actively fostering a culture that prioritizes the holistic development of students, ensuring they thrive both in and out of the classroom. By sharing stories supported by Mind Brain Education from various classrooms, we explore how movement, play, and community engagement are essential for learning. Our guests: Kathleen Pernick and Katie Maisonville - a PreK team, Chelsea Larsen - middle school theatre teacher, and Henry Upton - upper school history teacher offer insights on mind–body connection, balance and well-being, multimodal learning, and classroom community. Join us as we unpack the practical applications of this philosophy and its impact on student growth and success.