Mapping the Magic of Play
Mapping the Magic of Play is an interactive course designed to inspire educators to see play as the foundation of childhood occupations and a powerful driver of learning and development. Together with Child Australia and renowned Occupational Therapist and researcher Cath Fitzhardinge, participants will explore the unique characteristics of play, its importance in child development, and how to link play mapping directly to the National Quality Framework and Approved Learning Frameworks. Drawing on Cath’s 20+ years of experience and her research with play mapping in WA schools, this course introduces the Tool for Observing Play Outdoors to support meaningful programming, reflection, and the design of engaging play spaces. With a focus on embedding nature and outdoor play into everyday practice, this collaboration offers educators practical strategies to unlock the magic of play while supporting children’s wellbeing, development, and connection to their world.
