Policy in Play

In this episode of Policy in Play, Mayar Yousef Bader and Hala Yousef Bader from the Universal Education Foundation Children’s Advisory Group share their experiences of engaging in dialogue, expressing their perspectives, and contributing ideas within their communities. The conversation explores the importance of creating spaces where children and young people can participate, the role of intergenerational collaboration, and how listening to young people can strengthen the decisions and environments that shape their everyday lives. 

In the first episode of the new season, we explore meaningful youth participation with Yuval Degani and Dor Cohen from the National Student and Youth Council of Israel. Together, we discuss how young people are engaging in decision-making, working alongside policymakers, and creating change in their communities. From school councils and civic engagement to a national youth-led survey exploring young people’s experiences, this conversation highlights what happens when young people are not only heard, but recognised as partners in shaping the systems around them. 

In this fourth episode of Policy in Play, Dominic Richardson and Edda Olsson explore the link between child protection, well-being, and trauma prevention with global advocate Benjamin Perks. Benjamin unpacks the science of early childhood development, the power of attachment, and evidence-based policies that can prevent trauma at scale.   The discussion highlights how parenting programmes, universal parental leave, and trauma-informed education can lay the groundwork for a society where every child thrives. 

What happens when we stop seeing early childhood as the responsibility of parents alone and start treating it as a shared societal priority? In this episode of Policy in Play, Dominic and Edda are joined by Liana Ghent, Director of the International Step by Step Association (ISSA), to discuss the shift from siloed approaches to integrated ecosystems in ECD. They explore how collaboration, shared language, and a network mindset can transform services, empower professionals, and build stronger, more democratic communities for children and families everywhere. 

What does it really mean to centre children in all we do – from birth to old age? In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Mark Tomlinson to discuss infant mental health, the deep impact of language in policy, and how wellbeing is shaped across the life course. A powerful listen for anyone working with or advocating for children and young people.

In this episode, we speak with Professor Sharon Goldfeld, paediatrician and leading voice in early childhood development and equity. Drawing from her experience across research, policy, and practice, she explores how early childhood development can be a lever for equity, the vital role of communities, and the challenges of turning evidence into action.We also discuss the idea of “precision policy,” global learning, and the opportunities ahead for creating fairer outcomes for all children.

Policy in Play a brand-new podcast series from the Learning for Well-being Institute!This series aims to spark meaningful conversations about the policies that shape our lives, particularly those impacting children. Bringing together expert voices from research, policy, and international institutions, each episode explores how holistic, inclusive, and evidence-based policymaking can support both individual and collective well-being.