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Play is disappearing. In the last 50 years, research shows that outdoor free play has dropped by more than 70%. That loss is visible in children and showing up in teachers, parents, and leaders, too.
Tired eyes. Short fuses. Flat moods. Everyone’s running, but fewer are thriving.
Play used to be how we reset. Without it, the brain is left in a constant state of output with no recovery, and that takes a toll.
Play functions as a potent activator of the brain’s reward circuits. It triggers dopamine and serotonin, and strengthens the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain that helps us regulate emotions and stay grounded under pressure.)
This week, we’re unpacking the science behind joy and how play, even in small moments, starts to rewire the brain. The changes may be subtle at first, but over time, they stick: Neural pathways reform. New habits take hold. Ready? Let’s get into it!
372: Health Scares, Humbling Moments & The Power of Mindset
There are moments in life that shake us. And there are moments that shape us. This week's episode brings both.
In Episode 372, Paul and I talked about his recent health scare, sharing how it changed his outlook on wellbeing and men's health. Plus, thoughts on overcoming anxiety, reframing pressure, and cherishing loved ones.
There's also laughter, swim training mishaps, and a quiz that brings out our classic banter. Every story is proof of the brain's incredible ability to adapt and build strength — that's neuroplasticity in action.
If you're looking for an episode that leaves you smiling and thinking, this is the one. Let it lift your day. Listen now!
Launching 2026 - The School of Play Academy!
Teachers everywhere are feeling the squeeze: heavy workloads, rising expectations, and PD that often drains rather than inspires.
That's why we created something different.
The School of Play Academy is a globally recognised, AITSL-aligned professional learning experience designed to energise, inspire, and transform educators.
Across four dynamic webinars, you'll:
1. Discover the science of play and well-being
2. Build student confidence and resilience
3. Strengthen your own well-being and staff culture
4. Reflect, plan, and create your Play Pledge
Backed by research from La Trobe University, this isn't "tick-the-box" PD; it's a movement toward happier teachers, thriving classrooms, and connected schools.
What you'll gain:
- 6–8 recognised PD hours (AITSL-aligned)
- A digital certificate for your portfolio
- A practical resource pack + evidence workbook
- 12 months access to 60+ online learning courses
Launching 2026
Learn from anywhere, at your own pace.
Be first to know: www.theschoolofplay.co
Daily Mission Cards
Slowing down can feel almost rebellious, especially in the workplace. But it’s exactly what the brain needs to rewire for joy.
Today’s mission: 30 minutes of quiet. No talking. No scrolling. Just you, the outdoors, and your thoughts.
Here’s a quick positivity exercise to try during your quiet time: Mentally replay one moment from your day that made you smile. Then, relive it slowly. Notice what you saw, how it felt, and what it meant to you.
This micro-reflection wires the brain to notice joy more often and, over time, strengthens your capacity for emotional resilience. Activities like this might seem small, but when stacked daily, they transform the way you show up for yourself and your students.
For more ready-to-use prompts like this, explore the complete set of Creative Play & Movement Mission Card!
Entrepreneur Challenge
The school day leaves little room for creative risk-taking. Introducing gamified educational activities re-energises learning and unlocks deep engagement.
The Entrepreneur Challenge is a classroom simulation that turns students into imaginative business-builders. Each student is “given” $1,000,000. Their mission? Build a business, grow it, and pitch it!
They’ll research using real websites like Gumtree, create a spending portfolio, track budgets, and explain their choices in a final presentation. No two businesses will look the same, and that’s the magic.
Game Concept: Teachers first set some scenarios for the students to visualise themselves in. For example:
- Office Sharing: They buy a warehouse and turn it into a shared workspace. Students plan set-up costs, equipment, and income from day rates.
- Farming: Purchase land and decide between crops or livestock. Students factor in seasons, selling cycles, and equipment needs.
These scenarios build the structure for the challenge, but students take it from there. The result will be a memorable learning experience that feels like play, but teaches like life!
If you want more games like this, sign up for Jugar Life and access hundreds of creative educational activities for the classroom!
Pat Armitstead – Rehumanising the workplace – The art of co-creation
Many workplaces are burning out behind busy schedules. Teams are showing up, but not always as their full selves. A lack of creative space is stalling progress and dimming purpose.
In this uplifting session, Pat Armitstead shows how to reawaken wellbeing at work by blending emotional, social, creative, and conversational intelligence.
Her unique approach supports leaders and teams to co-create cultures where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to express themselves without fear.
Pat is known as “Australasia’s answer to Patch Adams” for good reason. Her warmth, humour, and wisdom have changed thousands of lives and will change yours.
You can’t lift the bottom line if people are down. Reignite your workplace wellbeing with this energising course HERE!
Big Play Energy in the Mallee
Last week, I jumped on a flight from Melbourne to Mildura to kick off three incredible days in the Mallee, and what a start it was!
Day one took us to Ouyen, working with Ouyen P–12 and two other fantastic local schools for a 90-minute Staff FunShop. Forty educators came together to play, laugh, connect, and rediscover the power of fun in learning. The energy in the room was electric. Laughter, teamwork, and joy everywhere you looked.
We can’t wait to see the Ouyen community continue embracing the play-based learning way!
We also wrapped up the Mallee Principals Conference with the closing keynote, bringing even more play, purpose, and positivity to this incredible region.
Join us on this global journey of joy and connection! If you want to bring The School of Play to your community, fill out the form here ➡
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