25.8.23
What Happens Next?
How Can We Balance Work and Play? | 82

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Last week on Monash University’s podcast, “What Happens Next?”, host Dr Susan Carland and her expert guests uncovered how neglecting play in adulthood can lead to decreased creativity and escalated burnout rates. This week, the podcast explores the future of play and offers some realistic suggestions for injecting a little more fun into our busy schedules.

Take a trip to the Conceptual PlayLab, guided by Laureate Professor Marilyn Fleer from Monash University's Faculty of Education. This living laboratory is pioneering play-based methodologies to instil complex STEM principles in young children, changing early childhood education and encouraging tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and innovative thinkers.

Play’s benefits don’t end after primary school. Professor Margaret S Barrett, Head of Monash University's Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Performance, reveals the profound connection between music and creativity. Her research shows how a music-rich environment can fortify cognitive skills and nurture confidence and connection in learners of all ages.

As adults, we often sideline play in favour of our to-do list. Dr Mike Rucker, author of “The Fun Habit”, explains how engaging in playful activities rejuvenates our minds, cultivating vitality, innovation and resilience.

Rob Walker, author of “The Art of Noticing”, adds his insights, highlighting that play is a form of focused attention, honing our creative abilities and even creating a gateway to mindfulness practices.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

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