This workshop is for practitioners working directly with children (i.e. early childhood educators, foster carers, Families as First Teachers, and playgroup facilitators) who are committed to applying cutting-edge neuroscience in practical ways within their practice. Packed with actionable strategies and insights, this session will empower participants to confidently support young children's development in sensory processing and schematic play, ensuring a solid foundation for emotional regulation and overall wellbeing.

The workshop will explore two vital components of early childhood development: Sensory Development and Schematic Play. We will delve into the intricacies of planning for eight areas of sensory development, including often-overlooked senses. Participants will learn how a well-rounded sensory program contributes to a child’s ability to construct emotions, drawing on research that underscores the role of sensory systems in emotional regulation.

Furthermore, the workshop will cover Schematic Play, with a focus on the types of schematic play identified by Chris Athey, such as the trajectory schema. We'll examine how engaging in schematic play helps children develop connections that are crucial for accurate predictions about their world, which in turn supports emotional development. This session aligns these developmental aspects with current affective neuroscience, offering ground breaking insights for practitioners.

In the final part of the workshop, we will explore the concept of 'flow' as articulated by Csikszentmihalyi, examining how sustained, uninterrupted periods of play are crucial for children to fully engage in sensory and schematic play. By fostering these deep states of involvement, educators can create environments where children thrive emotionally and cognitively, integrating all aspects of their development discussed throughout the day.