Play Happens Podcast

We’ve reached the end of Season One of Play Happens Podcast! In this episode, I reflect on what it means to protect play - for children and for ourselves. From messy moments to quiet creativity, from letting go of control to guarding time for imagination, this finale brings together the big lessons of the season. You’ll also hear a bit of the behind-the-scenes journey of starting the podcast - how...

Play is how families bond, build trust and rediscover joy together. In this episode, I explore how shared play strengthens relationships, lowers stress and helps families reconnect in simple, meaningful ways. ✨ Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt — Primary Educator, Masters in Special & Inclusive Education and passionate play advocate. Follow Jess on Instagram: @playhappensau 🎧 Subs...

Play isn’t just for kids - adults need it too! In this episode, I explore why play is essential for grown-ups - not just for fun, but for connection, creativity and mental health. From laughter to letting go of the to-do list, this episode is your reminder to make room for joy again. ✨ Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt - Primary Educator, Masters in Special & Inclusive Education an...

When kids play outside, they’re not just getting fresh air, they’re learning, growing and recalibrating. In this episode, I explore how nature invites imagination, builds courage, restores balance and connects us - both children and adults - in ways no classroom or screen can. ✨ Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt - Primary Educator, Masters in Special & Inclusive Education, and pass...

Play begins earlier than you might think - long before a baby takes their first steps. From womb kicks to toddler towers, imaginary worlds to tween adventures, play constantly evolves as children grow. In this episode, I explore how play shifts across the stages of childhood and what stays the same: curiosity, connection and creativity. Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt - Primary Educat...

Conflict isn’t always a bad thing - especially in play. In this episode of Play Happens , I explore how well-meaning adult intervention can sometimes get in the way of one of the most powerful learning opportunities children have: navigating social conflict. Learn when to step in, when to step back and how to support children as they build empathy, resilience and problem-solving skills - one playg...

What happens when a toddler, a four year old and a fourth grader all play together? Chaos? Maybe. Magic? Definitely. When kids of different ages play together, the results are unpredictable and powerful. In this episode, I will look at how multi-age play builds leadership, empathy, creativity and teamwork. I’ll also share some simple ways parents and educators can encourage it.  Play Happens is ho...

Sibling play isn’t always calm - it’s loud, messy and sometimes full of arguments. But behind the chaos lies powerful learning. In this episode, I explore how sibling play builds empathy, problem-solving, conflict resolution and lifelong bonds. We’ll look at how parents can support it without stepping in every two seconds. Play Happens is hosted by Jessica , a Primary Educator with a Masters in Sp...

What kind of spaces invite play and which quietly shut it down? In this episode, I explore how our homes and classrooms can be reimagined to encourage curiosity, creativity and independence. From making materials accessible to striking a balance between order and freedom, this episode is full of practical ideas to help play flourish. Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt - Primary Educator,...

Is your recycling bin the best toy store in the house? In this episode, I explore the magic of loose parts play and how open-ended materials like boxes, sticks and bottle caps spark creativity, problem-solving and resilience in ways no store-bought toy can match. Play Happens is hosted by Jessica Degenhardt — Primary Educator, Masters in Special & Inclusive Education and passionate play advoca...

What does real learning look like? In this episode, I explore why play often doesn’t resemble schoolwork and why that’s not just okay, it’s ideal. You’ll learn how cognitive, social, emotional and physical growth are all deeply embedded in the messy, noisy and imaginative play children naturally gravitate toward. Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Incl...

Rough and tumble play might look chaotic, but it’s packed with developmental benefits. In this episode, I break down what roughhousing really is, why it matters and how parents can support it without fear. If you’ve ever cringed at the sight of your child rolling on the floor or tackling a friend, this one’s for you. Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special &...

Worksheets and flashcards might look like learning, but in the early years, play does the job so much better. I unpack why hands-on play builds deeper skills than memorisation ever could - and share playful swaps that make learning stick. Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education. ✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau ✨ Share this epis...

Messy play might look like chaos - but beneath the paint splatters and muddy hands, kids are building crucial skills. I share why messy play matters, the hidden learning behind it and practical ways to make the mess manageable (without losing your mind). Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education. ✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau ✨...

Child-led play can feel tricky for adults who are used to leading the way - but it’s where kids shine. In this episode, I unpack what child-led play really looks like, why it matters and how you can join in without taking over. Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate, and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education. ✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @playhappensau ✨ If this episode resonated...

Independent play isn’t about leaving kids to fend for themselves - it’s about building confidence, creativity and resilience. In this episode of Play Happens , I share why solo play matters, what it looks like at different ages and gentle ways to encourage it at home. Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education. ✨ Follow on Instagram 👉 @pl...

Free play might look like chaos from the outside - spinning in circles, building wobbly towers, inventing endless rules - but inside your child’s brain, it’s magic. In this episode of Play Happens , I explore why free play is one of the richest ways kids learn and how you can make more space for it at home. Hosted by Jessica — Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive...

Think you don’t have time for play? Think again. In this episode of Play Happens , I share simple, everyday ways to weave play into routines you’re already doing - from cooking dinner to school runs. Discover how short bursts of silliness and connection can make a big difference, without adding more to your to-do list. Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special &amp...

Helicopter parenting comes from love - but too much hovering can hold kids back. In this episode of Play Happens , I explore why constant rescuing can actually limit children’s resilience, confidence and problem-solving skills. Learn how to “land the helicopter” with practical strategies that keep kids safe, while giving them the freedom to grow. Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate...

Feeling your heart leap when your child climbs too high or runs too fast? You’re not alone. In this episode of Play Happens , I unpack why our fears around risky play are normal, but how swooping in too often can hold kids back. Discover a mindset shift and practical language swaps that help you support your child’s confidence - without ignoring your protective instincts. Hosted by Jessica - Prima...

Risky play isn’t about danger - it’s about growth. In this episode of Play Happens , I unpack what risky play really is, why children need it for confidence, resilience and safety skills, and how adults can support it without fear. Plus, you’ll get one simple, practical tip to help you say “yes” to risky play (without your heart racing). Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Mast...

Welcome to Play Happens ! In this very first episode, I’m sharing how my passion for play began and why it’s so much more than “just fun.” I’ll talk about why I believe play is the engine of learning and I’ll leave you with a simple, practical play idea you can try out today. Hosted by Jessica - Primary Educator, Play Advocate and Masters in Special & Inclusive Education. ✨ Follow on Instagra...

What if learning looked a whole lot more like play ? I’m Jess - mum, teacher, and play advocate - and I created the Play Happens podcast to show you why play isn’t just fun, it’s fundamental. Each episode is short, practical and full of ideas you can use right away - perfect for busy parents and educators. Come listen in - and let’s fall in love with play again!