NATURE PLAY SA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023
With renowned keynotes speakers Time Gill (UK) and Madhavi Nawana-Parker (Aus) this Conference is a call to action. It asks educators, policymakers, health practitioners and services that support families and children to be bold in their approach toward nurturing and maintaining children’s wellbeing. Through provisions for risk-taking in play spaces, as well as in their approach to teaching and learning. Stepping outside the accepted norm to champion wellbeing as a priority.
It means delving deep into what wellbeing looks like for the whole child. Facilitating action to change or improve school approaches to teaching, learning and play to foster a culture where wellbeing can thrive.
The Conference will feature two well-known and prominent keynote speakers: Tim Gill (UK), renowned author, speaker, consultant and global advocate for children’s play and mobility; and Madhavi Nawana-Parker (Aus), Director of Positive Minds Australia, who is one of Australia’s leading experts on wellbeing and resilience.
Tickets: $395 + Booking Fee (morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea included)
Student: $276.50 + Booking Fee (morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea included). Please Note: Registered higher education student; current photographic University, TAFE or other college ID required on entry.
Need to be invoiced? Email us at [email protected]
A special thank you to:
- Credit Union SA (Gold Sponsor)
- Jurlique (Keynote Sponsor)
- Michelle Walsh Hourglass Consulting (Lunch sponsor)
- Green Adelaide (Nature Play SA Funding Supporter)
- Department for Education (Nature Play Funding SA Supporter)
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Tim Gill (UK)
Tim Gill is a global advocate for children’s outdoor play and mobility, and an independent scholar, writer, and consultant based in London. He is the author of Urban Playground: How child-friendly planning and design can save cities (RIBA Publications) and No Fear: Growing up in a risk-averse society (described in the New York Times as “a handbook for the movement for freer, riskier play”).
A UK Design Council Ambassador and Churchill Fellow, Tim holds degrees in philosophy and psychology from Oxford and London Universities, and an honorary doctorate in education from Edge Hill University.
Tim’s keynote explores latest research around the value of ‘risky play’ for children’s learning, well-being, and growth. In addition Tim is delivering a breakout session on Risk Benefit Assessment in children’s playspace.
Madhavi Nawana Parker (Aus)
Madhavi Nawana Parker Director of Positive Minds Australia, is one of Australia’s leading experts on Mental Health and Wellbeing. Her evidence-based programs are implemented throughout Australia and overseas, providing over two decades of contribution to her field, positively impacting thousands of young, disconnected and vulnerable young people.
As a widely published Author, Madhavi’s expertise is highly sought after by Schools, Allied Health Care Organisations and the Corporate Sector. Madhavi contributes regularly to Parenting and Education magazines, is an enthusiastic Podcast and Radio guest and advises on topics including Mental Health and Wellbeing, Parenting, and Education.
Madhavi brings her studies in Psychology, Counselling and over two decades of professional work in schools and organisations, to lead Positive Minds Australia in their commitment to improve connection, compassion, empathy and wellbeing for all.
Madhavi’s keynote explores ways to nourish and improve happiness and wellbeing in students, through nature, conversation, and healthy risk taking. In addition, Madhavi is delivering a breakout session on teacher wellbeing and happiness focused on how to be at your best, even when you’re not feeling your best.
BREAKOUTS
Our breakout speakers are from a diverse range of industries spanning across wellbeing, childhood development, nature pedagogy, early years, inclusive design, Aboriginal culture, play therapy, occupational therapy, and many others. Themes covered include creating conditions for learner agency to thrive, wellbeing programs, inclusive spaces, nature pedagogy, integrating Aboriginal culture into education and wellbeing, loose parts play, creating risky spaces, and truly viewing children as capable and competent.