Inner Child's Play
Remember the last time you lost yourself in the pure joy of making something with your hands? The thrill of building a world from nothing but imagination and whatever materials were within reach? That sense of wonder didn't disappear when you grew up. We're here to help you access play again.
In this hands-on, hearts-open workshop, early childhood educator and Reggio Emilia specialist Suzy Plessas invites you to do something radical: play like you mean it.
Rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy — which views every person as inherently creative, curious, and capable — this experience goes far beyond arts and crafts. Together, we'll explore the psychology behind why play is not a luxury but a fundamental human need, one that supports emotional regulation, creative problem-solving, and deep self-connection at every stage of life.
Through guided exploration, open-ended materials, and reflective conversation, you'll discover how to create the conditions for authentic play — both for yourself and in your relationships with others. We'll dig into why boundaries aren't the opposite of freedom but the very thing that makes real play feel safe enough to happen. And we'll turn the lens inward, gently examining the ways our own play was encouraged, interrupted, or shut down — and what it might look like to tend to that tender, playful part of ourselves again.
In this workshop, you'll explore:
The science and psychology of play — what it is, why it matters, and what happens when we lose access to it
Principles of facilitating play drawn from the Reggio Emilia approach
The surprising role of boundaries in unlocking creativity and trust
Reflective practices for reconnecting with your inner child and understanding what they still need from you
This workshop is for you if you're a community builder, facilitator, event host, educator, or simply a human being wanting to bring more play into your life.
No experience necessary. No right way to play. Just come willing to get curious.