Learn Play Thrive The Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with pedagogical leader Kelly Goodsir to explore the transformative power of intentional inquiry and deep listening in early learning. With over 20 years of experience, Kelly discusses how to reimagine educational leadership, moving away from "habitual" responses toward a relational, purposeful practice. She shares strategies for navigating team tensions and holding space for generative dialogue, ensuring that every decision honours the voices of both children and educators.

Drawing on concepts like Adam Grant’s 'rethinking cycle', Kelly offers practical advice on building a culture of curiosity. She emphasizes the importance of being "awake" to the present moment to ensure leadership remains grounded in meaning rather than just compliance. This conversation is an inspiring call to action for leaders to lead from the inside out, transforming everyday moments into profound learning opportunities.

Find out more:
www.kglearning.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/kellygoodsirconsultancy
https://www.instagram.com/kglearningece/
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Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au
- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_
- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia
- Email: [email protected]

In this episode, host Simone Brand explores National Quality Standard 3.2 - Use of the Physical Environment. We dive into: 
- Element 3.2.1 and the importance of creating a sense of belonging through responsive, inclusive pedagogy.
- Element 3.2.2 by exploring how carefully selected open-ended resources and natural materials can support play-based learning. 
- Element 3.2.3 and ways services can embed sustainability as a core pedagogical value. 

To help your team move toward an Exceeding rating, Simone shares critical reflection questions focused on cultural inclusion, healthy risk-taking, and environmental stewardship. We also announce our brand-new professional development course, 'The Regenerative Classroom: Empowering Young Changemakers for a Sustainable Future,' designed to help you map your practice to the EYLF V2.0. Tune in to discover how to intentionally scaffold children’s discovery of the world within a space that feels safe, secure, and deeply respectful of every child.
If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.
Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au
- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_
- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia
- Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we are joined by a powerhouse duo from the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) - Chairperson Kate Mount and General Manager Cara Mearns. With over six decades of combined experience, Kate and Cara explore the profound impact of the Reggio Emilia Approach in Australian early childhood settings.

We dive into the heart of Loris Malaguzzi’s 'Hundred Languages of Children', discussing how this central concept challenges educators to look beyond traditional schooling and make children’s limitless thinking visible through multimodal learning and a range of creative media.

The conversation also addresses the vital importance of professional nourishment for educators facing workforce shortages and burnout. Kate and Cara emphasize that valuing our workforce through reflection and democratic practice is essential for fostering safe, high-quality environments where children’s voices are truly heard.

This inspiring episode is a call to collective action, reminding us that a child’s potential is best realised when families, educators, and communities work together with courage and purpose. As our guests aptly ask - "If not now, when?"

Find out more:
https://reggioaustralia.org.au/
Instagram:  reggioaustralia
Facebook: reggioaustralia
LinkedIn: Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange
If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.
Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au
- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_
- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia
- Email: [email protected]

Join hosts Linda Harrison and Lindsay Laing as they explore the vital role of Risky Play in early childhood settings! Find out why risky play is important for building a young child's resilience, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills. This episode equips educators to understand the 6 types of Risky Play in early education.
 
You'll take away an innovative play provocation idea with using tools at a  Woodworking and Whittling Station. Discover how to safely set up an inviting outdoor workshop using natural materials and real tools to teach responsibility, persistence, and focus. This episode will empower you to become a brave facilitator of healthy risk-taking for preschoolers in your early learning environment!
If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.
Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au
- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_
- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia
- Email: [email protected]

In the second part of our deep dive into play schemas, host Linda Harrison and Educational Leader Rachel Emms explore the final four of the 'Big Eight' patterns of behaviour - orientation, positioning, enveloping, and rotation. 

By understanding these play schemas, educators can transform their physical learning environments into responsive 'third teachers' that cater to a child’s natural urge to wire their brain through repetitive, physical investigations of the world around them. The conversation offers a treasure trove of practical play provocations designed to elevate these schematic interests into deep pedagogical inquiries. 
If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.
Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au
- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_
- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia
- Email: [email protected]