How Play Enhances Social-Emotional Learning with Dr. Lori Koerner

This podcast episode explores the importance of free play and its essential role in social-emotional and academic learning. We interview Dr. Lori Koerner, executive director of curriculum, instruction, and professional personnel for New York’s Riverhead Central School District. Lori gives her expert perspective on “the boredom question” and looks at how many children are overscheduled today. She also shares her experience using a teaching style that allows students to explore, make choices, and become creative, self-directed learners. Lori highlights three key benefits of play that educators should keep in mind. This includes helping students release energy, express emotion, and form relationships.