How Play-based Learning Builds Problem Solvers

I recount presenting my work on therapy dogs in education at the New York State Reading Association conference, where an attendee with a service dog was in the audience. I discuss what children said about learning with classroom dog Carmel, why teachers may worry dogs will distract students, and how teacher preparation programs could better introduce animal-assisted education as students face growing anxiety.Key topicsI describe presenting her research and classroom work with Carmel at a New York State Reading Association conference.An attendee with her own service dog sat in the front row, creating a memorable connection during the presentation.I say initial excitement when a therapy dog first visits a classroom is understandable, and students can learn classroom rules over time.Children reflected on their changing views of Carmel, with some reporting that they focused more and did more work.Teachers may worry that a dog will distract students, even as Vokatis sees potential benefits for engagement, motivation, and academic achievement.I identify limited coverage of therapy animals in teacher preparation programs as one reason the practice may not be more widely used.I argue that supporting anxious children, belonging, and connection matters alongside reforms to academic instruction.I invite listeners to brainstorm ways to bring this topic into teacher preparation programs.

I argue that education should draw more on educational neuroscience and other learning sciences to better understand how students learn, especially neurodivergent students. I explore how brain research might help personalize teaching, support executive functioning, and explain the roles of motivation, emotion, and engagement, while calling for experts to join the conversation.Key topics-I draw on her experience as the parent of a neurodivergent teen to question whether education is meeting students’ needs.-I highlight a mismatch between therapies some autistic students with ADHD receive and support for executive functioning.-I argue that educational neuroscience should work alongside education, psychology, and computer science within the broader learning sciences.-Brain imaging may offer useful insight into learning differences, but research findings need careful interpretation before they can inform teaching.-I consider how neuroscience could contribute to more personalized approaches to reading, writing, and numeracy instruction.-I ask what research might explain about motivation, focus, and engagement in settings such as therapy-dog visits.-The episode ends with a call to connect research fields and invite educational neuroscientists to discuss the evidence and its implications for schools.Please subscribe to my newsletter. I will be honored.https://barbaravokatis.com

I speak with Michael McLeod, founder of GrowNOW ADHD and a specialist in ADHD and executive-function coaching, about supporting neurodivergent children and building independence. We discuss parent coaching, school practices, screen use, and McLeod’s recommendations for making education more supportive and evidence-informed.Key topics​Michael McLeod explains his GrowNOW Internal Skills Model: self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, and self-evaluation.​McLeod describes ADHD as an executive-function and performance challenge, rather than simply a deficit of attention.​He emphasizes parent coaching and training as central to helping families support children and young people with ADHD.​The conversation explores reducing constant adult prompts and gradually building independence through accountability and consequences.​McLeod warns about screen time and internet use, including games and social platforms, and their potential impact on executive skills.​We discuss authoritative parenting, setting loving limits, and avoiding fear-based parenting and unverified social-media advice.​McLeod argues schools should provide educators with focused ADHD and executive-function training and support teachers with clear expectations.​We consider project-based, hands-on, movement-oriented learning and reducing reliance on lecture-based instruction and educational technology.​McLeod outlines his work providing professional development, coaching students and parents, and authoring executive-function resources.Please connect with amazing Michael and see his resources:Website: https://www.grownowadhd.comBook: https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Function-Playbook-Building-Independence/dp/1394309155/ref=monarch_sidesheet_image

In this episode, Dr. Thomas Mackey discusses the concept of metaliteracy, its importance in navigating AI-mediated environments, and practical strategies for educators and learners to develop critical, ethical, and creative skills with digital tools.Key topics:Metaliteracy framework and its four dimensions (metacognitive, effective, cognitive, behavioral)The role of AI in education and the importance of ethical useStrategies for students and educators to critically evaluate and produce digital contentThe importance of learner agency and self-directed learning in digital environmentsPractical tools and activities for teaching metaliteracy, including digital storytelling and AI-assisted writingThe evolving landscape of digital and AI literacy and its implications for educationConnect with amazing Dr. Mackey and check out everything on metaliteracy:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasmackeyMetaliteracy website: https://metaliteracy.orgHow to Access the AI & Metaliteracy OER Toolkit (https://metaliteracy.org/ml-in-practice/how-to-access-the-ai-metaliteracy-oer-toolkit/)- We provide detailed instructions on how to download the toolkit for your LMS or you can just access the PDF.Metaliteracy Goals and Learning Objectives (https://metaliteracy.org/learning-objectives/) - These are adaptable goals and objectives for applying metaliteracy in practice.Metaliteracy YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@metaliteracylearningcollab1891?si=KE3545KgefjTe5qw) - This site features the videos we’ve developed over the years including the recent AI Avatar videos for the AI & Metaliteracy OER Toolkit.

In this episode, I interview neurodiversity expert Fialkora Myndru about the intersection of trauma, neurodiversity, and education. We explore how systems can better support neurodivergent individuals and the importance of collaboration and understanding.Key topicsThe intersection of trauma and neurodiversity in educationChallenges faced by neurodivergent children and teensThe role of systems and policies in support or harmImportance of collaboration between neurodivergent and neurotypical worldsStrategies for building resilience and understanding in educational settingsPlease connect with incredible Fialkora:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fialkora/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fialkora/

In this episode, Debby Klein, school principal shares her journey from classroom teacher to principal, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, play, and passion in education. Discover how innovative teaching methods and a growth mindset can transform learning experiences for children and educators alike.Key topicsThe role of curiosity and play in learningDebbie Klein's journey to becoming a principalThe importance of teacher passions and passions in teachingStrategies for engaging neurodivergent childrenThe impact of innovative, play-based learning approachesChallenges and rewards of educational leadershipBuilding trust and strong relationships in schoolsThe need for bravery and authenticity in teachingConnect with amazing Debby:https://www.instagram.com/principals_official?stkn=ZnRqcjVvM2kzczJuLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-klein-nolongerdekleining?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

In this episode, Nancy Gillette shares her insights on supporting neurodivergent children and their families, emphasizing the importance of systemic change, relationship development intervention, and fostering independence and belonging in educational settings.Key topicsThe importance of perspectives beyond the school systemRelationship development intervention (RDI) and its role in supporting autistic individualsThe need for systemic change in education to better serve neurodivergent childrenStrategies for supporting independence and self-advocacy in children and teensThe significance of belonging and safety for neurodivergent individualsChallenges faced by families navigating educational systemsThe biological differences in autistic brains and implications for teachingThe importance of teacher training and awareness about neurodiversityPractical strategies for educators to support individual needsThe global movement towards more inclusive and understanding educational practicesFind more about Nancy and her incredible work: https://www.nancygilette.com

In this episode, James Kellerhouse from Vanderbilt University - New York City discusses the evolving role of AI in education, the importance of liberal arts, and how universities can foster inclusive communities for neurodivergent students. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to higher education and the future of learning in a tech-driven world.Key topicsAI's impact on education and teaching methodsThe importance of liberal arts and humanities alongside STEMInnovative university programs in New York CitySupporting neurodivergent students through internships and communityThe evolving role of technology and place in higher educationPlease connect with James and see what Vanderbilt university - New York City offers:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameskellerhouse/University website: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/nyc/

Please subscribe to my newsletter at ⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠ and see my latest book Unshakable ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠!In this episode, I explore innovative perspectives in education, emphasizing the importance of adapting to unpredictability and neurodivergent needs through new frameworks like Presilience. I discuss how innovation can move faster in other sectors and why education must evolve to better serve all children.TakeawaysInnovation in education is crucial for preparing children for unpredictable futures.Current reforms are insufficient; systemic change is needed.The Presilience framework can help address issues in educational innovation.Neurodivergent children require tailored, innovative learning approaches.Cross-sector innovation can inspire faster change in education.

Please subscribe to my newsletter at https://barbaravokatis.com and see my latest book Unshakable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWB72V93!In this episode, I explore innovative approaches to education by integrating the concept of Presilience, an organizational leadership principle, emphasizing proactive strategies like animal-assisted education to prevent issues before they arise.Take aways:Using risk management principles from organizational leadership can help anticipate and prevent educational issues.Animal-assisted education can lower anxiety and stress in children, serving as a preventative tool.A presilience framework, borrowed from other fields, can transform educational practices.Proactive rather than reactive responses are essential for effective educational reform.