Build, Learn, Play & Grow: Developing Thinking Skills Through Construction Play Play, Learn & Create With Edx Education podcast

Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education

36:51

Traditional banks often lack personalized service, and local businesses struggle to find true partnership in financial institutions. Meanwhile, higher education faces scrutiny over relevance and ROI in a world where information is nearly free. Harry Allen helped launch Studio Bank to blend technology with high-touch service, fueled by community investment. At Belmont, he's applying the same entrepreneurial mindset to modernize university operations and embed practical learning experiences, like a one-of-a-kind partnership with Dolly Parton, into academia. In this episode, Harry L. Allen, co-founder of Studio Bank and now CFO at Belmont University, unpacks the bold vision behind launching a community-first bank in a city dominated by financial giants. He shares the leadership lessons that shaped his journey, how to lead through crisis, and why mentorship is the key to filling today's leadership vacuum. Key Takeaways Leveraging both financial and social capital creates a unique, community-first banking model. High-tech doesn't mean low-touch, Studio Bank fused innovation with personal relationships. Leadership means showing up, especially during crisis. Universities must shift from being information hubs to delivering real-world experience. Succession and mentorship are vital to cultivating the next generation of leaders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Harry L. Allen 01:49 The Birth of Studio Bank 04:29 Leveraging Technology in Community Banking 07:25 The Courage to Start a New Venture 10:37 Leadership Challenges in High Growth 13:02 Leading Through Crisis: The COVID Experience 17:55 Transitioning from Banking to Education 21:16 The Role of Leadership in Higher Education 25:16 Adapting to Challenges in Higher Education 30:04 The Leadership Vacuum in Society 33:17 Advice for Emerging Leaders 35:21 The American Dream and Community Impact No Limit Leadership is the go-to podcast for growth-minded executives, middle managers, and team leaders who want more than surface-level leadership advice. Hosted by executive coach and former Special Forces commander Sean Patton, this show dives deep into modern leadership, self-leadership, and the real-world strategies that build high-performing teams. Whether you're focused on leadership development, building a coaching culture, improving leadership communication, or strengthening team accountability, each episode equips you with actionable insights to unlock leadership potential across your organization. From designing onboarding systems that retain talent to asking better questions that drive clarity and impact, No Limit Leadership helps you lead yourself first so you can lead others better. If you're ready to create a culture of ownership, resilience, and results, this leadership podcast is for you.…

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Build, Learn, Play & Grow: Developing Thinking Skills Through Construction Play

30 days ago 5:01

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education, discuss into the world of construction play and how it sparks powerful thinking skills in young children. From building towers with Linking Cubes to exploring possibilities with MyGears® and Rainbow Pebbles®, we explore how handson play builds more than just structures it builds minds.

Discover how convergent, divergent, and lateral thinking come to life through open ended, creative play. Tune in for tips on how caregivers, parents, and educators can use construction toys to help children build, learn, play, and grow every day.

91 episodes

Build, Learn, Play & Grow: Developing Thinking Skills Through Construction Play

published 30 days ago

MP3•Episode home

91 episodes

All episodes

1
Build, Learn, Play & Grow: Developing Thinking Skills Through Construction Play 5:01

30 days ago5:01

5:01

In this episode of Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education , discuss into the world of construction play and how it sparks powerful thinking skills in young children. From building towers with Linking Cubes to exploring possibilities with MyGears® and Rainbow Pebbles®, we explore how handson play builds more than just structures it builds minds. Discover how convergent, divergent, and lateral thinking come to life through open ended, creative play. Tune in for tips on how caregivers, parents, and educators can use construction toys to help children build, learn, play, and grow every day.…

1
Think Outside the Toy Box: Nurturing Young Minds Through Playful Thinking 4:58

5 weeks ago4:58

4:58

In this episode of Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education , Heather Welch explores the importance of teaching children how to think creatively, critically, and independently through the power of play. Drawing from our latest blogs, we unpack the three key types of thinking: convergent, divergent, and lateral, and how toys like Rainbow Pebbles®, Linking Cubes, and open-ended activities can help unlock your child’s problem-solving potential. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, tune in for practical strategies, playful prompts, and expert insights on building confident, curious thinkers—one play session at a time.…

1
STEAM unlocks playful learning 5:28

7 weeks ago5:28

5:28

Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education , the podcast where we dive into the wonderful world of play based learning and explore how it shapes confident, creative, and curious learners. In this episode, we’re focusing on the importance of STEAM, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics and how integrating these subjects through play in the early years can lay a powerful foundation for lifelong learning. Early childhood is a critical time for development, and it's when children are naturally inquisitive, hands-on, and eager to explore the world around them. Through playful experiences, young learners develop essential skills like problem solving, collaboration, resilience, and critical thinking core to both STEAM and holistic growth. At Edx Education, we believe learning through play isn't just fun; it's essential. Join us as we chat with educators, experts, and parents who are passionate about nurturing young minds through creative and purposeful play. Discover how open ended toys, playful environments, and guided exploration can spark a love for learning and prepare children for the challenges and opportunities of the future.…

1
Play unlocks neurodivergent children's potential 5:32

8 weeks ago5:32

5:32

Discover how Play unlocks neurodivergent children's potential in the latest episode of the Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast, This engaging and heartwarming episode dives into the powerful role of play in supporting neurodivergent children—including those with autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, and other learning differences. Play isn’t just fun it’s essential. It’s how children express themselves, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive. For neurodivergent children, play becomes a bridge to communication, emotional regulation, and learning. From sensory rich toys like Rainbow Pebbles® to open-ended tools like linking cubes and water play, the episode explores how playful experiences can be tailored to suit different abilities, interests, and developmental needs. Heather speaks with warmth and expertise, sharing real life examples, strategies, and insights to help caregivers create inclusive and joyful play environments. You’ll come away inspired and empowered with practical tips that can make a meaningful difference in your child’s growth and happiness. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or educator, this episode is a must listen. Tune in and discover how play truly unlocks the unique potential within every neurodivergent child. Listen now on your favourite podcast platform.…

1
Toy Safety 101: CE, UKCA, and What Every Parent Needs to Know buying online 4:48

11 weeks ago4:48

4:48

In this must-listen episode, the Edx Education hosts discuss safety in toys looking atinto the critical topic of toy safety, breaking down the key differences between the CE (European Conformity) mark and the similar markings The hosts highlight the risks of buying uncertified, cheap toys from online marketplaces and offer tips on identifying trusted brands that prioritize both safety and ethical manufacturing. Tune in to learn how caregivers can make informed choices, ensure their children’s safety, and advocate for stricter market regulations.…

1
Play Your Way to Wellness: Boosting Kids' Mental and Physical Health 15:19

30 weeks ago15:19

15:19

We explore the vital connection between children's physical and mental health and the pivotal role that play has in nurturing both. Edx Education hosts highlight the importance of supporting well-being through play-based learning, delving into key concepts like risk assessment, resilience, and self-regulation. We'll share practical strategies for caregivers and educators to foster children's development, focusing on building resilience through diverse play activities and positive interactions. Tune in and don't forget to check out additional resources on the Edx Education website!…

1
Nurturing Children's Well-Being Through Play with Edx Education 24:03

31 weeks ago24:03

24:03

Tune in to the Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast as Edx Education discusses the powerful connection between play and a child’s mental and physical health. In this episode, she unpacks how play fosters resilience, helps children manage stress, and builds essential social and emotional skills. Discover how creating a safe, supportive environment for play can transform a child’s ability to learn, grow, and thrive. Edx Education hosts sheds light on the risk and protective factors that shape children’s well-being, offering practical advice for caregivers on how to guide kids through challenges with confidence. Learn how encouraging positive risk-taking, problem-solving, and self-regulation through play can set your child up for lifelong success. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help children explore their world and build a strong foundation for their overall development. Join us as we explore why play is more than fun—it’s vital for health, happiness, and resilience. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the role of play in shaping confident, capable, and well-rounded children.…

1
From Hangry to Happy: Helping Children Manage Their Emotions 23:01

32 weeks ago23:01

23:01

Edx Education experts discuss the importance of self-regulation for children in the early years, focusing on how it affects their social and emotional development, learning, and ability to make friends. The hosts argues that understanding the five domains of self-regulation – biological , emotional , cognitive , social , and pro-social – can help parents and educators identify the triggers behind challenging behaviour in children. They advocates for a supportive approach that encourages identifying and managing emotions, building coping mechanisms, and promoting positive behaviours through play.…

1
Mindfulness and our Children, Happy, Healthy Minds 33:50

33 weeks ago33:50

33:50

What are the benefits of mindfulness for children, explores practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into everyday family life. The Edx Education hosts emphasizes the importance of helping children understand and manage their emotions, particularly in challenging situations. She then provides a range of exercises and activities that parents and caregivers can use to promote mindfulness, such as mindful movement, mindful listening, mindful eating, gratitude practice, and yoga. Welch highlights how these activities can lead to calmer, more positive interactions within families, ultimately creating a more harmonious environment.…

1
Importance of Role Playing in Early Childhood and All Ages 11:25

34 weeks ago11:25

11:25

Play, Learn, and Create podcast explores the value of children's play, specifically highlighting the importance of role-playing for their development. The Edx Education hosts discusses different types of role-playing: real-life situations , occupational role-playing , and fantasy role-playing . Each of these forms of play offers unique opportunities for children to develop essential skills, such as communication, empathy, and social-emotional regulation. By observing children engaged in these activities, parents and educators can gain valuable insights into their fears, concerns, and developmental needs.…

1
Caregivers as First Teachers - Play in Child Development 9:50

35 weeks ago9:50

9:50

Welcome to another enriching episode of Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education . In today’s episode, we discuss the vital role caregivers play in a child’s development and how fostering a playful environment can transform everyday moments into powerful learning experiences. At Edx Education, we believe that caregivers are a child’s first and most important teachers, and much of a child’s early learning happens through the magic of play. Our Edx Education hosts will explore how simple, playful interactions can shape a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. From offering children choices and experimenting together to providing positive feedback and support, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you engage in meaningful play with your little ones. We'll also be discussing the importance of active listening, showing empathy, and building a strong, loving bond through positive contact. By engaging in play and creating a nurturing, supportive environment, caregivers can lay the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or educator, this episode will provide valuable insights into how you can help children thrive through play. So let’s get started and discover how we can all play, learn, and grow together! #edxeducation #learningthroughplay #playlearncreate #teachers #children…

1
The Power of Play, Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs through Inclusive Play 11:03

36 weeks ago11:03

11:03

In Series 3, Episode 6 of the Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast, hosts Edx Education experts sit down to discuss Heather’s insights from her book, Happy Children Play . This episode focuses on the importance of play for children with special educational needs (SEN), covering a range of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), physical or psychological impairments, visual impairments, and speech or hearing challenges. The hosts explore how inclusive play can support children with SEN, they emphasize the development of vital skills like communication, social interaction, and problem-solving through play. The hosts provide practical advice for caregivers and educators on how to create play environments that embrace diversity and foster acceptance, making play accessible for every child. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how inclusive play not only benefits children with special needs but also cultivates empathy and cooperation in all children. Tune in to hear Heather Welch, author of Happy Children Play , share her expertise on making playtime a powerful, inclusive experience for all. #edxeducation #playlearncreate #learningthroughplay #parentpodcast…

1
Teaching Children to Think: Nurturing Critical and Creative Minds 16:21

37 weeks ago16:21

16:21

In this episode 5 of series 3 Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education , we dive into one of the most important yet overlooked aspects of early childhood education—teaching children to think. Our Edx Education hosts explore how critical and creative thinking are essential skills that lay the foundation for future success. Too often, traditional education systems focus solely on convergent thinking, which is about finding the one right answer. However, this episode highlights the importance of also fostering divergent and lateral thinking, skills that encourage children to explore multiple solutions, think outside the box, and approach problems from new perspectives. We’ll be unpacking three key types of thinking: convergent, divergent, and lateral, and why it's crucial to strike a balance between them. But this isn't just theory—our hosts offer five practical strategies that parents, caregivers, and educators can use to help children become confident thinkers. From giving them choices and encouraging exploration to fostering experimentation and embracing diverse experiences, this episode is packed with actionable tips. Tune in to discover how to empower the next generation to think for themselves and unlock their natural creativity! #edxeducation #playlearncreate #parentpodcast…

1
Happy Children Play, Social and Emotional Learning 7:55

38 weeks ago7:55

7:55

In this exciting episode of Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education , we discuss into the powerful role of play in developing essential social and emotional learning (SEL) skills in young children. As parents and caregivers, we all want our kids to be happy, resilient, and confident. But did you know that play is one of the most effective tools to help them achieve this? Join us as we explore how play-based learning, using toys like Rainbow Pebbles®, MyGears®, Math Cubes, and Fidget Cubes, can support the growth of key SEL skills—self-awareness, emotional regulation, social awareness, and responsible decision-making. Through engaging and fun activities, children can learn how to understand their emotions, build relationships, and make thoughtful choices—all while having a blast! Our Edx Education hosts discuss how everyday play can foster empathy, mindfulness, and problem-solving skills that last a lifetime. Plus, we share practical tips on incorporating SEL into your child’s playtime routine and highlight how parents can support this journey. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with tips and ideas to help your child thrive through the power of play! #parentspodcast #edxeducation #playlearncreate #educationtoys #socialemotionalearning…

1
Stages of Play: Nurturing Child Development Through Playtime Adventures with Edx Education 8:45

39 weeks ago8:45