FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Why grownups need to play.

This training is structured with adults first because educators are essential workers. Focusing on our own joy, health, and wellbeing is critical to ensuring that we can fully show up and be of maximum service to the children, families, and communities we support. To be sure, we must prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our students, but we do them a great disservice when we don’t model healthy self-care practices.

You are important; you are essential; so you come first…

REFLECTION

  • Think about the things your body, mind, and spirit need to be well and healthy. The video showcased six benefits of adult play.

  • When we break it down, it’s easy to find 5 or 10 minutes here and there throughout each day – a 10 minute walk at lunch; 5 minutes of dancing while you prepare a meal; 10 minutes of stretching in the morning, etc. It adds up!

  • Think outside of the usual exercises you see people doing. Think about things like lifting children or boxes of toys or supplies.

  • Think about things you like doing, used to like doing, or have always wanted to do. Plan to start small and succeed, then build from there.

An adult person with long hair is swinging on a swing set with a large body of water in front of them and the bright setting sun beyond that.
“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.”
— Diane Ackerman

Get the most out of this course by exploring the Additional Resources in each Lesson!