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We are joined by two special guests from the Minnesota Children's Museum: Michelle Blodgett, Director of Experiences, and Bob Ingrassia, Vice President of External Relations. In this discussion, Michelle and Bob share their insights on designing play spaces and exhibits at the Museum, and the power of open-ended play in developing critical life skills.

Today's episode answers these questions:

• How are play and learning intertwined?
• What role does play have in developing language skills?
• What are examples of exhibits at the Museum that help children develop essential skills?
• How can play spaces encourage positive social interaction between children?
• How can parents incorporate ideas of playful learning at home?
• How can parents incorporate more nature-based play?
• What are ways of encouraging and identifying age-appropriate learning?
• How does "risky play" support learning and development?

Resources:

Ideas for how to embody Playful Parenting:

Playful Parenting - Minnesota Children's Museum

Child Care & Early Learning Activities- New Horizon Academy

All Play - Minnesota Children's Museum's income-qualified program:

All Play Membership - Minnesota Children's Museum

NAEYC- The Power of Playful Learning:

The Power of Playful Learning in the Early Childhood Setting | NAEYC

Michigan State University - The Value of Open-Ended Play:

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_value_of_open_ended_play

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Thanks for listening!