The Growing Brain: Everyday Play Part 2

November 2025 Lunch and Learn.png

Abstract:

Join us for a Lunch & Learn series where neuroscience meets real-world impact, with Zero to Three's The Growing Brain. Discover how early brain development shapes everything from behavior, learning, and relationships--and how providers and caregivers make a lasting impact. This engaging, research-based training from Zero to Three breaks down complex neuroscience into practical everyday tools that you can use to support the growth of young children. This webinar is primarily didactic style but will require some participation from the audience. Bring your lunch, feed your brain, and leave with strategies to use in your work!

This presentation is the second installment of a 3 part Lunch & Learn Series (October, November, December 2025) aimed at:

• understanding the stages and types of play that unfold in early childhood
• the role of the brain in this process
• and how to maximize children's learning through play

Presenter: 

Dr. Cynthia Palacios-Gutierrez

Professional Development Manager

The Children's Center Utah

Objectives:

-Learn about the development of pay

-learn about the difference between free and guided play

-Learn about the core skills children develop through play and how to promote these skills.

Endorsement Competencies:

Area 1: Theoretical Foundations

• Infant/ Young Child Development and Behavior
• Attachment, Separation, Trauma, Grief and Loss
• Relationship Focused Therapeutic Practice

Area 4: Direct Service Skills

• Encourages observation and interpretation of child behavior in various play contexts.
• Promotes intentional use of play to support developmental goals and relationship-building.

Area 5: Working with Others

• Encourages collaboration with caregivers to support play based learning.

Area 8: Reflection

• Offers opportunities to reflect on how play informs practice and supports emotional regulation, problem-solving, and social skills.