Episode 169 - Play is how children learn and develop in their early childhood years. In this episode, we interview Dr. Elanna Yalow, Chief Academic Officer at KinderCare, on how teachers can support children as they learn through play. She highlights how play and academics are not separate from each other. Instead, it is the instinctive way that young children learn how to problem solve and develop skills. We discuss some strategies that educators can use to incorporate play into their practice. Resources:  KinderCare Children Do Better The Longer They’re With Us What Will They Find Next? Sensory play for babies builds their brains  Want to light up your baby’s brains? Talk, coo and smile too  Expert infant teachers share what to look for in a daycare KinderCare celebrates 50th Portland anniversary