This fully asynchronous course explores the links between play and education, with a focus on young students in particular. It also offers an exclusive opportunity to view Bullfrog Films' 2025 short film "Rough and Tumble: Taking Play Seriously" which showcases the links between play, child development, and learning. The film captures how and why both humans and animals play. The course also offers an opportunity to review the ways that play can be incorporated into educational settings, including through a review of A Pedagogy of Play:  Supporting playful learning in classrooms and schools, a collaborative guide on instituting play-based learning from Project Zero of Harvard Graduate School of Education. Participants will work at their own pace on Canvas to submit short reading and writing assignments, guided film viewing questions, and a final reflection where they explore resources for integrating play-based learning into educational settings. Completion of the course offers an opportunity to purchase 10 clock hours in Equity, SEL, or Educational Leadership. NWESD 189 is a state approved clock hour provider and clock hours can be used for certificate renewal in Washington State.

Deadline: Participants must complete this session in Canvas by October 15, 2026. Course attendance is taken on an on-going basis after participants finish, often within 3-5 days, though during rush periods and holiday breaks please be aware it may take up to 2 weeks. Participants will be deactivated in the course after course completion. Please Note: Due to holiday breaks, no grading or recording of attendance will take place December 20, 2025 - January 1, 2026. Attendance for courses completed during these time periods will be completed as soon as possible after the break. Thank you in advance for your patience.