In this powerful episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, we sit down with internationally recognized child development expert Dr. Jacqueline Harding to explore the science behind why play is essential for healthy brain development. Drawing from her bestselling book The Brain that Loves to Play, Dr. Harding breaks down what is actually happening in a child’s brain during play—and why it builds neural pathways in ways that traditional academic tasks cannot.

We dive into the fascinating connection between imagination and biology, including how play may even influence gene expression, and what early childhood classrooms would look like if we truly followed the science of how children learn. Dr. Harding also shares her expertise from advising the UK government and shaping digital media standards across Europe, offering practical insights on screen time, children’s programming, and how parents can make more informed decisions in today’s digital world.

From AI-powered toys to the future of play, this episode challenges us to rethink childhood in a rapidly changing world—and leaves listeners with one simple, actionable strategy they can start using tomorrow.

The Brain that Loves to Laugh: A Visual Guide to Humour and Human Connection in the Early Years
https://www.routledge.com/The-Brain-that-Loves-to-Laugh-A-Visual-Guide-to-Humour-and-Human-Connection-in-the-Early-Years/Harding/p/book/9781032953915

Little Brains Love to Talk (Book Series)
https://www.routledge.com/Little-Brains-Love-to-Talk/book-series/LBLT

In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, hosts Crystal Loose and Aimee Ketchum sit down with internationally renowned child psychologist and neuroscientist Professor Sam Wass, one of the world's leading experts on attention, learning, and child development.

As artificial intelligence, smart devices, and digital technology become increasingly integrated into children's lives, parents and educators are asking important questions: How do these technologies impact developing brains? What helps children build attention, self-regulation, and resilience? And how can we create environments that support healthy development in a rapidly changing world?

Professor Wass shares groundbreaking research from the Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY), exploring how children's everyday experiences shape attention, stress, learning, and behavior. The conversation covers the science of self-regulation, the importance of caregiver-child interactions, the role of play in development, and what parents should know about AI-powered toys and digital companions.

You'll also hear practical strategies for supporting children's focus, reducing distraction, and creating relationship-rich environments that foster lifelong learning.

• How early environments shape attention and learning
• The neuroscience behind self-regulation in young children
• What parents should know about AI toys and digital technology
• Why human relationships remain the foundation of healthy development
• How children learn to focus in real-world settings
• Insights from Professor Wass's book Take Action on Distraction
• Using neuroscience to improve teaching and early childhood education

• Whether you're a parent, teacher, therapist, childcare professional, or policymaker, this episode offers evidence-based insights and practical tools to help children thrive in a distracted world.

Learn More About Professor Sam Wass

• Website: https://www.profsamwass.com/
• Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY): https://www.isey.org
• University of East London Profile: https://www.uel.ac.uk/about-uel/staff/sam-wass
• NEST Kids: https://www.nestkids.co.uk
• Book: Take Action on Distraction: The Definitive Guide to Improving Attention and Focus in the Early Years and Key Stage One

Before we dive into the research, we are playing a Fact or Myth game about brain development and some of the answers may surprise you.

Is a baby’s brain fully developed at birth? Do children need special toys to grow their brain? Does talking to a baby really matter? In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, we break down common myths and replace them with research-backed facts every parent should know.

We then take a deeper look at the science behind early brain development, based on research from Tierney and Nelson published in Zero to Three. You will learn how a child’s brain grows from birth to age three, how connections in the brain are formed and strengthened, and why early experiences play such a critical role in shaping development.

We explain key concepts like synaptogenesis, pruning, and myelination in a way that is easy to understand and directly applicable to everyday parenting. We also explore the difference between expected experiences like language and attachment, and unique experiences that shape each child’s individuality.

Most importantly, this episode emphasizes a powerful message for parents: you do not need expensive toys or complicated strategies to support your child’s brain development. Simple, loving interactions like talking, reading, singing, and playing are what truly build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Perfect for parents, caregivers, and early childhood professionals who want to understand how to support healthy brain development in babies and toddlers.