Messy play might look like chaos - but beneath the paint splatters and muddy hands, kids are building crucial skills. I share why messy play matters, the hidden learning behind it and practical ways to make the mess manageable (without losing your mind).

Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.

✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau

✨ If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another parent, caregiver or educator who could use a reminder that the mess is worth it.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Child-led play can feel tricky for adults who are used to leading the way - but it’s where kids shine. In this episode, I unpack what child-led play really looks like, why it matters and how you can join in without taking over.

Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate, and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.

✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau

✨ If this episode resonated, share it with another parent, caregiver, or educator who could use a fresh perspective on child-led play.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Independent play isn’t about leaving kids to fend for themselves - it’s about building confidence, creativity and resilience. In this episode of Play Happens, I share why solo play matters, what it looks like at different ages and gentle ways to encourage it at home.

Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ If this episode resonated, share it with another parent, caregiver, or educator who could use the reminder that independent play is both possible and powerful.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Free play might look like chaos from the outside - spinning in circles, building wobbly towers, inventing endless rules - but inside your child’s brain, it’s magic. In this episode of Play Happens, I explore why free play is one of the richest ways kids learn and how you can make more space for it at home.

Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ If this episode encouraged you to step back and let kids lead, share it with another parent, caregiver or educator who might need the reminder that “just play” is more than enough.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Think you don’t have time for play? Think again. In this episode of Play Happens, I share simple, everyday ways to weave play into routines you’re already doing - from cooking dinner to school runs. Discover how short bursts of silliness and connection can make a big difference, without adding more to your to-do list.

Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ For more insights and play ideas, subscribe and share the show with another parent, teacher or caregiver who could use encouragement to embrace the wonderful, sometimes nerve-wracking side of play.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Helicopter parenting comes from love - but too much hovering can hold kids back. In this episode of Play Happens, I explore why constant rescuing can actually limit children’s resilience, confidence and problem-solving skills. Learn how to “land the helicopter” with practical strategies that keep kids safe, while giving them the freedom to grow.

Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ For more insights and play ideas, subscribe and share the show with another parent, teacher or caregiver who could use encouragement to embrace the wonderful, sometimes nerve-wracking side of play.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Feeling your heart leap when your child climbs too high or runs too fast? You’re not alone. In this episode of Play Happens, I unpack why our fears around risky play are normal, but how swooping in too often can hold kids back. Discover a mindset shift and practical language swaps that help you support your child’s confidence - without ignoring your protective instincts.

Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ For more insights and play ideas, subscribe and share the show with another parent, teacher or caregiver who could use encouragement to embrace the wonderful, sometimes nerve-wracking side of play.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.

Risky play isn’t about danger - it’s about growth. In this episode of Play Happens, I unpack what risky play really is, why children need it for confidence, resilience and safety skills, and how adults can support it without fear. Plus, you’ll get one simple, practical tip to help you say “yes” to risky play (without your heart racing).

Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education.
✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau
✨ For more insights and play ideas, subscribe and share the show with another parent, teacher or caregiver who could use encouragement to embrace the wonderful, sometimes nerve-wracking side of play.

💛 And remember: sometimes the best kind of learning looks a whole lot like play.