From Sandboxes to Sustainability: Children's Play-Based Wisdom

Dr Kate Renshaw 'aka' Dr Play in conversation with guest, Rachel Parker on the topic of the relationship between global citizenship and play.Rachel Parker is the Founder of Global Play Lab and Voice of the Child Foundation Lead at Murdoch Children's Research Institute. Her experience includes:20+ years in educational programming and researchInternational work with Lego Foundation, UNICEF, and the Australian GovernmentEpisode HighlightsThe Natural Global CitizenChildren naturally value animal life equally to human lifePossess inherent ethical qualities and global citizenship perspectivesTheir perspectives elevate adult understanding of interconnectednessSmall World PlayMiniaturized environments create safe containers for explorationAppeals to both children and adultsConnection to language development and complex learningCo-Creation vs. ConsultationMoving beyond adult-designed programs to genuine partnershipGallery Victoria's approach: children as event designersSustainability discussions in play-based learningTrust in children's capabilities creates empowerment cyclesFrom Loose Parts to Global ConnectionsAbstract play challenges adults but energizes childrenObject substitution play unlocks creativity and innovationDifferent play types serve different developmental functionsConnecting everyday play to broader global citizenship conceptsCultural Humility and Playful AcknowledgmentPlay-based approaches for meaningful acknowledgment of countryChildren's wisdom informing authentic adult practicesBalancing respect and engagement in cultural workThe Voice of the Child ToolkitFree resource from Murdoch Children's Research InstitutePractical guidance for including children's voicesAge-appropriate methods for consultation, collaboration, co-creationFocus groups to assessment approaches honoring children's strengthsKey TakeawaysChildren are natural global citizens - they inherently understand interconnectedness and value all life formsPlay is communication - children's first language provides rich insights for adults willing to listenSmall spaces, big learning - contained environments enable complex exploration and developmentTrust creates capacity - when adults trust children's wisdom, children rise to meet higher expectationsAuthentic engagement matters - playful approaches can enhance rather than diminish serious cultural and educational workUpcoming EventsFREE Webinar: July 22nd - Murdoch Children's Research Institute presenting the Voice of the Child Toolkit. Register online https://mcri.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ykebDxyXSCGdv5f3CyukrA#/registrationResources MentionedIndigenous X - cultural humility training https://training.indigenousx.com.au/ Connect with Rachel ParkerWebsite: Global Play Lab https://www.globalplaylab.com/ LinkedIn: Professional conversations welcomeEmail: Available through website contactAbout Dr Play PodcastHosted by Dr Kate Renshaw, play therapist and child rights advocate, exploring play as a fundamental investment in humankind."Play is children's first language - and when we learn to speak it, we unlock profound insights into global citizenship, interconnectedness, and our shared humanity."

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