Idaho Training Clearinghouse
The Power of Play in Early Learning (Session 1 of 3)
FULL TITLE:
The Power of Play in Early Learning (Session 1 of 3)
SPONSORED BY:
Idaho State Department of Education (SDE)
EVENT ORGANIZER:
For more information, contact: Janice Carson at janicec@uidaho.edu
For registration related questions, contact itc@uidaho.edu
DATE & TIME:
December 3, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 PST/4:00-6:00 MST
Register for The Power of Play in Early Learning - Session 1
SERIES DESCRIPTION:
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of play in the classroom and be able to articulate the research-based value of play in children’s growth and learning. Additionally, they will understand what a high-quality classroom environment looks like and feel confident designing learning spaces that encourage meaningful play and learning. Finally, they will develop actionable strategies to overcome barriers, strengthen their confidence in play-based teaching, and implement new, research-informed practices that enrich classroom learning through play.
Session 1: The Purpose of Play - "Play is the Child's Work"
Session 1 Description: Participants will explore the vital role of play in early learning and understand why it is the foundation of all development. To that end, they will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of play in the classroom and be able to articulate the research-based value of play in children’s growth and learning.
Session 2: Creating High-Quality Learning Environments
Session 2 Description: Participants will learn how to design and organize classroom environments that inspire exploration, creativity, and purposeful play. Moreover, they will understand what a high-quality classroom environment looks like and feel confident designing learning spaces that encourage meaningful play and learning.
Session 3: Play is Learning - Overcoming Challenges and Barriers
Session 3 Description: In the final session, participants will connect play theory to real-world practice and address common challenges educators face when implementing play-based learning. They will develop actionable strategies to overcome barriers, strengthen their confidence in play-based teaching, and implement new, research-informed practices that enrich classroom learning through play.
PRESENTER:
Kari Palmer
PRESENTER BIO:
Kari Palmer is the Early Learning Project Manager for Caldwell School District. She has worked in the non-profit arena for over 20 years, where she owned and operated her own preschool called Wiggles and Giggles. Additionally, she has worked in property management and program development, directing and managing. Kari is proud of her collaborations, which have brought the right people together to make a significant impact on the communities she has served.
CREDIT:
This course is available for Spring 2026 inservice credit through the University of Idaho (UI). Enrollment for this course closes on March 9, 2026. Visit the Idaho Training Clearinghouse For Credit page for more information.
SPECIAL NEEDS:
If you need special accommodations, please contact the event organizer listed above.