I have learned so much this year by participating in the CRG. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect at first, but what I discovered has had a real and lasting impact on my teaching, as well as how I approach finding ways to meet the needs of my students.
Playful learning is all about giving students space to explore, take creative risks, and follow their curiosity. It emphasizes choice, agency, and joy in the learning process. As I learned more, I couldn’t I was excited to think about how I could bring this approach into my own classroom, particularly in my ICT class where we already try to make learning hands-on and engaging.
Along with the third grade team at Greenacres, I took the leap and began experimenting with playful studios in writing, science, and social studies. At the end of each unit we offered students choices in how they wanted to show what they had learned. They could create a video, build a model, write a story, put together a slideshow, and many other choices. The excitement in the room was palpable. The creativity, thoughtfulness, and joy the students brought to their projects were inspiring.
This shift changed the atmosphere in our classroom. Students were more energized and motivated. They took ownership of their work and started pushing themselves in ways I hadn’t seen before. Students were interested in expressing ideas in ways that felt meaningful to them. Watching students collaborate, share ideas, and encourage each other was a powerful reminder of what learning can look like when we step back and give kids the chance to make choices for themselves, and mistakes along the way.
For me, this experience also reshaped how I think about my role as a teacher. I had to learn to let go a little and to trust my students, along with the process. I found myself listening more, guiding rather than directing, and celebrating the unique ways each student approached a challenge.
One of the most touching moments was seeing students who don’t usually shine in traditional settings come alive during these playful projects. They were confident, proud, and engaged. It reminded me that when we create opportunities for all students to show what they know in ways that feel right to them, we build a more inclusive and empowering classroom.
Thank you for this opportunity to join the CRG. It pushed me to grow as an educator and gave me a fresh perspective on what learning can be. Playful learning has become an important part of how I teach, and I’m excited to keep exploring it. When students are given voice, choice, and the freedom to play, joy truly enters the classroom.
Amy, your reflection captures so beautifully the heart of what we hoped the CRG would spark—curiosity, risk-taking, collaboration, and a renewed sense of possibility in the classroom. The way you embraced playful learning and translated it into meaningful, student-centered experiences across content areas is truly inspiring. It’s especially powerful to hear how students who may not thrive in traditional formats found their voice and confidence through the choices you offered. Thank you for leaning into this work so fully and for reminding us all what becomes possible when we trust our students, honor their agency, and lead with joy. So glad to have you in the CRG this year! You truly are such a team player! Michelle O'Donnell