Children, Spirituality & Play

Guest Speaker - Dr Cathie Harrison
Senior Lecturer, Australian Catholic University

Dr Cathie Harrison is Senior Lecturer at the Australian Catholic University, North Sydney campus and teaches in post graduate early childhood degree programs at the university. Cathie also designs and delivers professional learning for teachers in both prior to school and school settings as an early childhood and gifted education consultant and  has been an advisor to the Australian children's television program Play School since 1999. Cathie's current research focuses on children's play, formative assessment and the transition to school.

In this workshop participants will explore the nature of spirituality in early childhood and connections between children, spirituality and play. Shared stories and encounters with natural materials will support deep reflection and mindfulness as participants consider the role that they can have in honouring and being enriched by the spirituality of young children. 

Further to professional development, attendance at this workshop will also allow participants to achieve System Accredited Module (SAM) Status with an associated reflection paper (details to be provided) for use in applying to meet the requirements of the Catholic Professional Formation Allowance (CPF 3) in 2018.

Cathie has asked that each participant bring with them a small stick from your place.  It doesn't need to be big but it would be good if it is distinctive.  Could you also bring a small bag of loose materials, everyday and natural items collected from your own garden, home area or work area. We will use these materials for creative play, pattern making or a mandala.  Materials such as leaves, gum nuts, pebbles or stones, petals, flowers, large beads, buttons, ribbons, etc.  The process of finding the items will also be an opportunity for reflection.

This workshop is aimed at teachers, educators and leaders in prior to school and junior primary settings.