What happens after the school day ends?

In this episode of The Forgotten ECE, I sit down with Megan from Discover and Play to talk about something we don’t talk about enough in school-age programs — sensory needs, emotional regulation and designing programs for neurodivergence.

We dive into: ✨ Why sensory play isn’t just for early years — it’s essential for school-age children ✨ How to support emotional regulation and self-calming in before and after school programs ✨ Creating inclusive environments where every child can feel successful and seen ✨ Simple, realistic sensory strategies you can start using right away

This conversation is a powerful reminder that school readiness isn’t just academic — it’s emotional, social, and deeply connected to how children feel in their bodies.

💛 Connect with Megan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discover_and_play/ YouTube: Discover and Play Book: https://a.co/d/0idxHycS

Connect with Megan on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DiscoverandPlay-m1p

If you’re working in before and after-school programs, this episode will challenge you to rethink what children really need to thrive.

🎧 Listen now and let’s keep advocating for the children and educators who are too often forgotten.

#TheForgottenECE #SchoolAgeCare #BeforeAndAfterSchool #ECE #EmotionalRegulation #SensoryPlay #InclusionMatters