Series – Unlocking the Power of Play: Nurturing Independent Play
Modern parenting often means juggling a lot—and that can lead to kids spending more time on screens or in adult-directed activities. But independent play is not only possible—it’s powerful. Learn how to encourage self-guided play, what kinds of toys and tools can help, and how to build your child’s confidence in playing solo.
In a world where screens dominate and safety often takes precedence over exploration, children are growing up with fewer opportunities to discover, imagine, and take meaningful risks. Yet the research is clear: kids learn best through hands-on experiences—and play is the ultimate teacher. Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, in partnership with TrueNorth Parent University, for a powerful four-part series designed to help you bring more play into your child’s life. Grounded in developmental science and filled with real-world strategies, this series explores how play nurtures children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Together, we’ll examine the societal shifts that have chipped away at play, why play matters now more than ever, and how to make it an intentional, enriching part of everyday life. Each session includes practical ideas you can try at home and opportunities to connect with other parents who value the power of play.
Upcoming Events
How to Feel Loved: The Five Mindsets That Get You More of What Matters Most
Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside
Daniel Pink
#1 New York Times bestselling author
ON ZOOM
The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation
Rep. James E. Clyburn
U.S. Congressman representing South Carolina's 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives
Natalie Y. Moore
Award-winning journalist and author and senior lecturer and director of audio programming at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University
Evanston Township High School Auditorium
Note: Event start time is Central Time (CT).
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

Dopamine Kids: A Science-Based Plan to Rewire Your Child’s Brain and Take Back Your Family in the Age of Screens and Ultraprocessed Foods
Michaeleen Doucleff, Ph.D.
Bestselling author, biochemist, and award-winning NPR reporter
Heidi Stevens
Chicago-based writer and Director of External Affairs for the University of Chicago’s TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health
ON ZOOM

