“The most important material for play is others to play with."

collaborative freedom to experiment & research relatedness strengthening the community Aug 15, 2025

“The most important material for play is others to play with."

This powerful quote from Dr. Peter Gray challenges so much of what we prioritize in education.

When we hear "play," we often think of something for young children. But in my work, we define play as 'Freedom to Experiment & Research'—the very engine of all real learning. It’s the start of self-development.

In education, we tend to invest heavily in materials. The best books, the latest software, the most innovative classroom furniture. We focus on the what.

But Gray’s quote reminds us that the deepest learning happens in the how—in the interaction between people.

A student explaining an idea to a peer. A teacher co-designing a lesson with a colleague. A team tackling a problem they couldn't solve alone.

Our greatest resource isn't in the budget. It's already walking through the hallways. It's the collective curiosity, knowledge, and energy of our students and staff.

Learning isn’t something you deliver to people. It’s something that happens between them.

So, here's my reflection for the end of the week: What would change if we spent less time organizing content, and more time orchestrating connection?

#ReimagineEducation #allLearners #Motivation #EducationLeadership #Play #Collaboration #Community #LearningIsSocial