Let Your Diamond Shine: Play, Purpose, and Possibility in Aligned P–3 Learning

**ECP Credit Available** Attendees will: Understand how play functions as a serious learning strategy that supports cognitive development, self-regulation, literacy, and numeracy across Birth–3rd grade.Explore aligned P–3 instructional practices that bridge early childhood and early elementary learning through shared language, routines, and developmental expectations.Experience Ray’s “Diamond Model of Learning,” which frames curiosity, mistakes, and imagination as essential building blocks for deep understanding.Gain practical, classroom-ready strategies for designing guided play and inquiry experiences that connect early learning and early grades.Reflect on how joyful learning strengthens relationships, equity, and coherence across classrooms, schools, and community systems.