Online Professional Development
Play to Thrive
Play to Thrive is a self-paced, online professional learning program developed by Nature Play SA, leaders in nature play education and advocates for children’s wellbeing, mental health and development.
The program is strongly informed by current research, and is aligned with all AEDC domains with a central focus on emotional maturity through child wellbeing, autonomy, and inclusivity. It is shaped by a diverse group of expert contributors from early childhood education, research, play therapy, cultural leadership and curriculum development across South Australia.
What’s Included?
The program includes an eight-part video series presented across two stages, which can be purchased separately or as a package.
Stage 1: Foundations
Lay the groundwork for a strong nature play practice.
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Foundations of Nature Play – Explore the principles and benefits of nature play, and how it supports holistic child development.
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Overcoming Barriers – Identify perceived challenges and discover practical ways to address them.
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Pedagogy of Play – Shape a play pedagogy that connects with your values, curriculum, and children’s needs.
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Risk in Play – Learn how to balance safety, challenge, and growth in outdoor environments.
Stage 2: Deepening Practice
Build on your foundation with practical tools, deeper knowledge, and strategies to strengthen children’s voices and wellbeing.
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Resilience and Wellbeing – Support self-regulation, resilience, and emotional wellbeing through play.
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The Developing Brain – Understand the science behind play, movement, and sensory engagement.
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Documenting Learning – Practical approaches to recording and sharing children’s learning.
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Children’s Voices – Honour and amplify children’s perspectives in your practice.
Learn from Expert Voices
Throughout the program, you’ll hear from experienced practitioners and researchers who bring depth, credibility and multiple perspectives to nature play practice, including:
- First Nations cultural perspectives with David Booth, First Nations Artist and Cultural Representative
- Early childhood leaders and directors from Department for Education, Catholic Education and independent services
- Play therapy and wellbeing specialists, including Pip Westwood, Registered Play Therapist
- Researchers and academics from the Adelaide University, including Dr Jane Webb Williams and Kylie Dankiw
- Curriculum, pedagogy and Reggio Emilia perspectives that support reflective, child-centred practice, including Kate Mount, Chairperson of Reggio Emilia Australia
Resources
Participants also receive a suite of practical digital resources to support reflection, deepen their understanding of play pedagogy, and put their learning into practice, plus a certificate of completion that can be counted towards professional development (PD) hours.
Enrol Now
