Play is often viewed as something children simply enjoy, but the science tells a much deeper story. Play is fundamental to how children learn, build relationships, develop resilience, and engage with the world around them.
Ahead of the upcoming Playfulness in Action: Applying Neuroscience to Support Play, Engagement, and Resilience workshop in Perth this July, we sat down with internationally recognised experts Professor Anita Bundy and Dr Shelly Lane for an exclusive interview exploring why play matters more than ever.
Drawing on decades of research in occupational therapy, neuroscience, sensory integration, and child development, Anita and Shelly share their insights into the powerful connection between play, brain development, participation, and wellbeing. They discuss common misconceptions about play, why play should be considered both a therapeutic tool and an important outcome in its own right, and what clinicians, educators, and families can do to better support playful engagement for all children.
Their work has influenced professionals around the world, helping reshape the conversation around play from something that is “just fun” to something that is essential for healthy development, learning, resilience, and inclusion.
In this interview, you’ll gain a preview of some of the key themes that will be explored during the full-day workshop, including:
- The neuroscience behind play and playfulness
- How play supports emotional regulation, learning, and resilience
- The difference between using play as a therapeutic medium and valuing play as an outcome
- Practical strategies to foster play and engagement in everyday practice
- Supporting meaningful play opportunities for neurodivergent children
Whether you’re an occupational therapist, speech pathologist, psychologist, educator, or allied health professional, this conversation offers valuable insights that can immediately inform your work with children and families.
Playfulness in Action: Applying Neuroscience to Support Play, Engagement, and Resilience will be held on Friday 24 July 2026 in Perth and brings together two of the most influential voices in play research and practice. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the neural foundations of play, practical strategies to support playful engagement, and new ways to advocate for play as a critical occupation for all children.
Tickets are still available to the upcoming workshop event in Perth on person or as an exclusive recorded copy here