As we get older, work and play feel worlds apart. But as kids, playing is our job – and many of us played at having jobs.

We set out shops. Operated on our teddies. Cut our dolls’ hair. Explored the outer edges of space in the garden.

And although we might not have gone on to be any of the things that we pretended to be, those early experiments still shaped us into who we are today – and how we work. They gave us the chance to try new things, learn new things and feel new things.

But not every child gets those chances. Our freedom to play and develop as children depends on things like financial stability, access to early education and the availability and wellbeing of our parents.

So, we need to take play seriously.

How do we trace the link between our early experiences and our later lives? Is how we played as children, how we work today? And if so, then how do we make sure that all children can play in a way that allows them to learn, grow and develop skills that will shape their future? That’s what we’re exploring with Christian Pau, Vice President and General Manager for the UK and Ireland at LEGO Group, and Emma Franklin, Director at Deloitte in this episode of The Green Room.

Tune in to find out:

What conditions are needed for the very best playtime
The most influential factors of our early childhoods
Which skills we develop the most through play – and how we use them at work
The one step businesses can take to better support families

Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts

You can also watch our episodes on Youtube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK

Check out From Babies With Love here.

Guests: Christian Pau from The Lego Group and Emma Franklin from Deloitte Hosts: Annie Wong and Lizzie Elston Original music: Ali Barrett

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