Learn Play Thrive The Podcast
Episodes
Sector Insights from Family Day Care Australia
07 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand sits down with Andrew Paterson, CEO of Family Day Care Australia (FDCA). With over a decade of...
Road Safety In Early Education #1: Key Road Safety Messages
04 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to a special edition of the Learn Play Thrive podcast as we launch an exciting 10-part mini-series Road Safety in Early Education. Recorded in...
Educational Leadership in ECEC
30 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we sit down with pedagogical leader Kelly Goodsir to explore the transformative power of intentional inquiry and deep listening in ea...
Navigating the NQS #7: Standard 3.2 Physical Environment - Use
27 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 im...
The Hundred Languages of Children: An Introduction to Reggio Emilia
23 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we are joined by a powerhouse duo from the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) - Chairperson Kate Mount and General ...
Play Provocations #3: Risky Play for Preschoolers
21 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 impor...
Play Provocations #5: Play Schemas Part Two
20 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
Fostering Digital Literacy with Story Box Library
16 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we welcome Teresa Mei Macri and Haley Davis from Story Box Library to discuss how theis digital platform connects young children with...
S2E1 Little Library: Laugh In The Bath
13 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library, host Linda Harrison dives into the bubbly world of Laugh in the Bath (2026 CBCA Notable pictu...
Learn Play Thrive Early Education Conference: Pedagogy in Practice Panel
09 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this live-recorded episode from the Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education Conference on the NSW Central Coast, host Simone Brand sits down with an ...
Navigating the NQS #6: Standard 3.1 Physical Environment - Design
06 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, we explore Standard 3.1 Physical Environment - Design; and the concept of the physical environment as the &qu...
Children's Behaviour: It's More Than Just Managing
02 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we welcome Professor Cathrine Neilsen-Hewett, Chief Children’s Officer for Goodstart Early Learning, to discuss the neuroscience of...
Play Provocations #4: Play Schemas Part One
30 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Ever wonder why a toddler is obsessed with dropping peas from a high chair or why blocks are constantly being carted across the room in a bucket? In t...
The ARACY Approach: Championing Child Health and Wellbeing
26 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive Australia podcast, we sit down with Kirrin Sampson, an advocate for the early years currently leading program...
Little Dreamers #10: Animal Yoga
23 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Step into a peaceful morning on the farm with this episode of Little Dreamers, where host Kathryn leads preschoolers through a soothing mindfulness jo...
Feel Safe, Be Safe: Embedding Child Protective Strategies into Everyday Teaching
19 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
⚠️ Listener warning: Anatomical Language - Please be advised that this episode contains discussions regarding child protective behaviours and body...
Little Library #10: Another Year Around The Sun
16 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join Linda Harrison and award-winning author Katrina Germein as they dive into her latest picture book, Another Year Around the Sun. This lyrical stor...
Unpacking the Relevance of the Teacher Standards for the ECEC sector
12 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, host Simone Brand welcomes Danny Pinchas from The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). We unpack how the ...
Navigating the NQS #5: Standard 2.2 - Safety
09 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand breaks down the shift from compliance to excellence in Standard 2.2: Safety. She challenges e...
Shaping Stronger Futures: Developing Speech and Language Programs
05 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we are honoured to sit down with Director Amy Shine, an incredible force in the ECEC sector with over 25 years of dedicated experienc...
Little Dreamers #9: Cats and Dogs
02 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this month's episode of our Little Dreamers mini-series, we explore the playful world of our favourite furry friends! Host Kathryn leads presc...
Empowering Educators in Early Learning with Twinkl
26 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to an invigorating episode of Learn Play Thrive! Today, we are joined by a powerhouse of our sector, Stacey Jackson from Twinkl Australia. A...
Little Library #9: Bowerbird Brood
23 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join Linda Harrison and author/illustrator Aura Parker to explore the delightful picture book, Bowerbird Brood. This enchanting story is a heart-warmi...
Early Childhood Education Summit 2026
19 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this powerful episode of Learn Play Thrive, we are joined by Dr Red Ruby Scarlet—an activist, teacher-researcher, and academic who has spent over...
Navigating the NQS #4: Standard 2.1 - Health
16 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand discusses Quality Area 2: Children’s Health and Safety. This episode dives deep into Standa...
The Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education 2026 Conference Preview!
12 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this special episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with producer Linda Harrison to give you an exclusive sneak peek...
Children's Voices: Boab Committee
09 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartwarming episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, we shift the spotlight to where it truly belongs - the children. The Boab Committee is ...
From Framework to Footpath: A Practical Guide to Road Safety in ECEC
05 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in for an important discussion on keeping our youngest road users safe! We welcome Louise Cosgrove and Amanda Menzies from Kids and Traffic (Tran...
Little Dreamers #8: Butterflies
02 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This episode of Little Dreamers is all about beautiful butterflies, guiding preschoolers through gentle imagery and promote deep relaxation, body awar...
Episode Encore: Weaving Aboriginal Perspectives Across the Curriculum
29 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
We're bringing back a must-listen favorite! Join us for this powerful encore featuring Jessica Staines, founder of the Koori Curriculum, renowned...
Episode Encore: Generative AI - Should we worry or be excited?
22 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
We’re bringing back a must-listen favourite. In this powerful encore, I sit down with Dr Kate Highfield to unpack one of the biggest conversations i...
Navigating the NQS #3: Standard 1.3 - Assessment and planning
19 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand guides educators to excellence by diving into the heart of Quality Area 1 - Standard 1.3: Ass...
Episode Encore: The Power of Play and Storytelling in Water Safety Education
15 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we're bringing back one of our favourite episodes just in time for the summer season. Simone Brand chats with Louise Lambeth, an exper...
Little Library #8: Tubowgule - A Sydney Opera House History
12 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Linda Harrison and First Nations author, Melissa-Jane Fogarty, as we explore the picture book Tubowgule: A Sydney Opera House History. This ...
Activating a Collective Ethic of Care and Co-responsibility with the Great Barrier Reef
18 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an inspiring discussion with two leading voices in early childhood education, Debi Keyte-Hartland and Catherine Lee. We dive into an inqui...
Little Dreamers #7: Flowers
15 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Little Dreamers mini-series! These monthly episodes feature specially written mindfulness stories designed to ignite young imaginations...
Intentional Scaffolding: From Vygotsky to Today
11 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to transform your intentional teaching and learning practices? Join us for an essential discussion with Kate Hodgekiss, owner of Engag...
Play Provocations #2: Pretend Play
08 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Play Provocations, hosts Linda Harrison and Lindsay Laing unpack the power of pretend play. Learn how inventing roles and narrative...
The Magic of Mark-Making
04 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
How do we unlock the joy of meaningful mark-making for every child? This week, we host Dr. Gai Lindsay, Senior Lecturer and long-time early childhood ...
Navigating the NQS #2: Standard 1.2 - Practice
01 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This exciting monthly mini-series, Navigating the NQS, continues with host Simone Brand who draws on 15 years of exceeding-rated leadership experience...
2025 ECA National Conference: Exhibiter Insights.mp3
27 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We're hitting the floor at the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) National Conference 2025 in Perth! Host Simone Brand dives into the bustling Exhib...
Little Dreamers #6: A Transport Journey to Calm
24 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome back to Little Dreamers, the enchanting mini-series designed to bring calm and creativity to a young child's world! This month, get ready...
2025 ECA National Conference: Educator Voices
20 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We're taking you live to Perth for the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) National Conference 2025! Learn Play Thrive host Simone Brand grabs the mi...
Little Library #7: The Christmas Tree Catastrophe
17 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ready to bring the magic of picture books into your early learning practice this festive season? Join Linda Harrison on Learn Play Thrive's Littl...
Empowering Young Children Through Hands-On Disaster Preparedness
13 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready for an eye-opening chat with Dr. Sharleen Keleher about disaster preparedness. Drawing from her extensive research and hands-on work with co...
Play Provocations #1: Messy Play
10 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready to get playful with our brand-new monthly mini-series, Play Provocations, dropping once a month on Tuesdays! Join your hosts, Linda Harrison...
Nurturing Sensory and Motor Development in Preschoolers
06 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we talk to Amanda Bacon, a highly experienced Paediatric Physiotherapist and designer of the Targeted Motor Control (TMC) Screening Tool. A...
Navigating the NQS #1: Standard 1.1 - Program
03 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This exciting new monthly mini-series, Navigating the NQS, is hosted by host Simone Brand! Drawing on her 15 years of experience as an educator, leade...
Montessori in Action: Practical Strategies for your ECEC Setting
30 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We're excited to welcome back a very special international USA guest to the Learn Play Thrive podcast, early childhood educator and social-emotio...
Raising the Bar: A Guide to Thriving in the A&R Process
23 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The Assessment and Rating (A&R) process doesn't have to be a source of stress! This episode of Learn Play Thrive is here to transform your pe...
The Pedagogical Artistry of Shared Thinking
20 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this inspiring episode, we welcome back the conversation from last week and dive into the newly released book, Redefining Planning and Assessment: ...
Redefining Planning and Assessment: Seeing Children Through Pedagogical Documentation
16 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We’re thrilled to bring you an incredibly insightful episode of Learn Play Thrive, recorded at the REAIE conference in Adelaide! This week, we'...
Little Dreamers #5: Bubbles
13 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready for some calm and quiet time with a brand new episode of Little Dreamers, our monthly mini-series of mindful stories from Learn Play Thrive!...
A Day In The Life of a Centre Manager
09 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Step into the inspiring world of early childhood education on this episode of Learn Play Thrive, where we're joined by the incredible Ashleigh Wa...
Little Library #6: The Bug Book
06 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into a buzzing new episode of Learn Play Thrive's Little Library! This week, we're joined by award-winning author Tania Ingram to chat ...
Who is the Atelierista? The Heart of Creativity in Reggio Emilia
02 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, we’re joined by Caterina Pennestri, an atelierista at St Peter’s Girls Early Learning Centre. Caterina bri...
The Be You Buzz: Educator Wellbeing Matters
25 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to The Be You buzz! In this episode, we're joined by Paola Mercado, a consultant from Be You at Early Childhood Australia.Paola shares he...
Little Dreamers #4: Dinosaurs
18 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's mindfulness stories for preschoolers! Settle into a gentle movement and mindfulness episode crafted for young list...
Supervision in Action: Strategies for a Safe and Engaging Environment
18 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode, host Simone Brand has an essential conversation with early childhood consultant Tracey Yeomans. With over 35 years of experience, Tra...
Early Learning Matters Live: A Central Coast Celebration
11 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we're taking you to the heart of our Early Learning Matters Week celebration! Join us as we share a special episode recorded live at t...
Little Library #5: Spiro
11 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Learn Play Thrive Little Library! In this episode, we dive into the award-winning Australian picture book, Spiro, authored and illustra...
360 Degrees of Leadership in ECEC
04 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for a special episode with the dynamic founding partners of Semann & Slattery, Colin Slattery and Anthony Semann.With over 25 years of exp...
Educator Voices from the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) 2025 Conference
28 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This special episode is recorded live at the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) 2025 conference in Adelaide.The conference theme, ‘...
The Digital Child: Nurturing Future-Ready Learners
21 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an incredibly insightful conversation with Professor Lisa Kervin AM, Director of the Early Start Institute at the University of Wollongong...
Little Dreamers #3: Friendship
21 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's mindfulness stories for preschoolers! Settle into a gentle movement and mindfulness episode crafted for young list...
Encountering the Mosaic of Marks, Words, and Material: An Interactive Atelier
14 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an inspirational episode as we delve into the heart of the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) Exhibition, the ‘Mosaic ...
An Educator's Guide: Easing Separation Anxiety During Room Changes
07 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an insightful episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, featuring educators Karin House and Emma Seyer! With decades of combined experienc...
Is It Just a Phase? Understanding Separation Anxiety in Childhood
31 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we chat with Jen Gibbons, a clinical counsellor with 14 years of experience and a passion for working with trauma, attachment, and complex ...
Pedgagogy or Paparazzi
24 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an illuminating episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast as we welcome Clare Comedoy, a passionate pedagogical leader for excellence in ea...
ECEC Pedagogy Matters with Dr Red Ruby Scarlet
17 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an electrifying episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast as we welcome the incredible Dr. Red Ruby Scarlet! With over 30 years in early ch...
Feeding with Connection: What Really Matters for Kids?
10 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us on the latest episode of Learn Play Thrive as we welcome Eliza Peacock from Milk & Munch, a certified speech pathologist with over 12 year...
Rethinking Disability Support: A Holistic Approach
03 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, we welcome Jenny Nechvatal. Jenny is a passionate advocate from Innovative Disability Solutions with over 30 yea...
Little Library #4: Bev and Kev
30 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's Little Library! In this episode, our Early Education Content Producer, Linda Harrison, dives into the award-winnin...
Planning Thinking, Not Planning Activities Using a Slow Pedagogy Approach
26 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn, Play, Thrive, I sit down with Anthony Semann, co-director of Semann & Slattery, to explore how the concept of “slow pe...
United Workers Union: Big Steps Campaign
19 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this conversation from an exhibitor at the Semann & Slattery Inspire Conference 2025, we sat down with Deidre Donnelly and Tamika Hicks from th...
Building Services From The Ground Up: The Approved Provider Journey with Simone Brand
19 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this chat Simone shares her passion for working in the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) industry, what its been like building two long day...
Advocacy with Early Childhood Australia
12 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This special episode features Samantha Page, the dynamic CEO of Early Childhood Australia (ECA). As the driving force behind advocacy for children und...
Amplifying Cultural Allyship in the Early Years
05 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today on the podcast, we're joined by two influential figures in early childhood education: Laura Stone from the Australian Broadcasting Corporat...
Little Dreamers #2: Clouds
05 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's mindfulness journey stories for preschoolers! Settle into a peaceful moment with Clouds, a gentle movement and min...
Music for Inner Peace & Brain Power!
29 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in with Amelia Scarf from Rhymey, an expert in early childhood music! Discover how simple musical experiences can transform your classroom into a...
The Trauma Lens: Transforming Early Education
22 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to this episode where we're joined by Kate Hodgekiss, owner and director of Engaging Curriculum Solutions, to explore the vital role of u...
Little Library #3: The Truck Cat
15 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this special BONUS episode, Linda Harrison explores The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel & Danny Snell – the official picture book for ALIA'...
Weaving Aboriginal Perspectives Across the Curriculum
15 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode of Learn Play Thrive features Jessica Staines, a leading early childhood educator, advocate, and professional speaker renowned for her wo...
Little Dreamers #1: Majestic Bugs
08 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's brand new mindfulness journey for preschoolers! Settle into a peaceful moment with our very first episode, Majesti...
Bush Kinder with Purpose
01 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ready to unlock a world of learning right outside the door? Join us on Learn Play Thrive as we chat with early childhood guru Louise Dorrat! With 40 y...
Reimagining Teaching & Learning Through the Arts
24 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever wonder how to truly ignite creativity in young children? Ready to see their learning blossom in unexpected ways?Then get inspired with the latest...
Building Healthy Habits: The Munch & Move Way
24 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Want to inject more movement and wellbeing into your early childhood setting?This week on Learn Play Thrive, we're diving into the essential ingr...
Inspire 2025 Conference Conversations: Exhibitor Insights
17 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to a special behind-the-scenes episode! Today, we're taking you straight to the vibrant exhibitor floor of the Semann & Slattery Insp...
Inventive Thinking in Young Children, Keynote speaker at Inspire 2025
17 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an captivating conversation recorded live at the Inspire Conference 2025! We had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Dr Ben Mardell PhD...
Inspire 2025 Conference Conversations: Educator Voices
10 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Straight from the heart of the Semann & Slattery Inspire 2025 conference, this bonus episode ignites the raw passion of early childhood educators ...
Generative AI: Should we worry or be excited?
10 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we welcome renowned ECEC expert Dr Kate Highfield from the University of Canberra. Join us as we unpack the buzz and address the re...
Media And Multimodal Play, ABC Kids Early Education
03 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we welcome Laura Stone, Early Childhood Education Producer at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Laura shares valuable ins...
Little Library #2: Ruby's Repair Cafe
03 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Learn, Play, Thrive, the podcast dedicated to early learning! In this episode, we explore the enchanting world of 'Ruby's Repair ...
All Kids Can Be Readers!: Inspiring a Love of Reading with the Australian Children's Laureate
27 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this special episode of Learn Play Thrive, we are joined by Sally Rippin, Australian Children's Laureate for 2024-2025. Sally is Australia’...
Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Early Childhood, Big World of Little Dude USA
20 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week host Simone Brand chats with guest Cara Zelas, an Early Childhood Educator, Montessori teacher, social emotional learning expert, and dog th...
Little Library #1: Goodnight Sheep
13 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we welcome Linda Harrison, Early Education Content Producer at Learn Play Thrive. All of us here at Learn Play Thrive are passionate a...
Educational Leadership: Planning a balanced curriculum, Aimee Hansen
13 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode of Learn Play Thrive, we’re thrilled to welcome back Aimee Hansen, an experienced Educational Leader with over 26 years in the ...
Nurturing Young Minds: Supporting Co-regulation in Early Childhood
06 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we welcome Racheal O’Brien, founder of Consciously Raising Kids. With a career as an early childhood educator and sleep and wellbei...
Inclusion in Action: Making Equity & Diversity Everyday Practice
27 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, we are joined by Dr. Kathy Cologon, Principal Consultant and Founder of Toward Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. ...
Beyond the Buzzword: Mastering and Expanding your Critical Reflection toolbox - Part 2
20 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join me, Simone Brand, on Learn, Play, Thrive, the ultimate early learning podcast for educators and leaders. In this episode, we dive deep into criti...