Dr Jacqueline Harding looks at the importance of laughter and joy for the Early Years workforce.
Join us for a session that will present a groundbreaking exploration of the transformative power of laughter, joy, hope, and human connection in early childhood development and education. Dr Harding believes that, far from being incidental or frivolous, these emotional experiences are essential drivers of cognitive growth, emotional wellbeing, and resilience in children.
Using everyday language and an accessible approach, she will explain interdisciplinary research from neuroscience and psychology to education and child development, and make the point that human connection, underpinned by hope, humour and play, is fundamental to how children learn, communicate, and thrive.
Through lively compelling case studies, films and fun props she shows how laughter reduces the cognitive load, hope fosters motivation, and relationships build the neural architecture required for learning. The films are practical examples from classrooms, family life and media and all illustrate how joyful, emotionally attuned environments enhance creativity, social bonds, and executive function.
Three quick-fire interactive activities will be included alongside opportunities for questions and discussion.
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Join our Inspiration Network!
Inspiration needs fuel—and there’s nothing like connecting with others who care deeply about young children’s wellbeing and learning.
Our Inspiration Network sessions invite you to recharge, rethink, and return to your practice with renewed energy and insight.
Expect a blend of facilitated reflection, peer exchange, and provocations designed to stimulate fresh thinking around pedagogy, practice, and purpose in the early years.
Your voice matters!
Bring an open heart, curious mind, and any reflections you'd like to share. You won’t be a spectator – come prepared to participate (cameras on and ready to talk).
From breakout chats to shared reflections, you’ll be part of the conversation shaping the future of early childhood practice.
PLEASE NOTE: Our Inspiration Network sessions will NOT be recorded, as we want to encourage as much professional dialogue and reflection as possible.