Event: ECDA's Start With Play Fall Conference 2026

Exp 03 PM: Neuro-Affirming Strategies for Playful Connections & Outdoor By Design: Creating Meaningful Outdoor Learning Environments

Morning Session: What do you do when a child does not respond as expected to the practices that generally spark connection in play, routines, and everyday activities? In this session, participants will reflect on the importance of accepting diverse ways of playing, while still scaffolding and expanding their play and participation. Participants will use their understanding of serve-and-return interactions to investigate strategies that support engagement and connection with children who present as neurodiverse or have a neurodevelopmental disability. Lastly, participants will have the opportunity to create a plan to start using these strategies with children in their program.

Afternoon Session:

Outdoor play is more than giving children time outside. Like indoor environments, outdoor spaces deserve intentional design that invites exploration, risk-taking, creativity, and deep engagement.

In this practical session, participants will examine how thoughtful outdoor environments can encourage richer play experiences while supporting children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Educators will explore ways to maximize existing outdoor spaces using loose parts, natural materials, and intentional design principles that foster curiosity and discovery throughout every season.

Date: November 5, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: PM: Confederation Centre: Memorial Hall