The International Play Association (IPA) USA is thrilled to host its 2024 Conference, The Child’s Right to Play, RIGHT NOW!, in Greenville, SC. This event runs from Wednesday, September 25 through Saturday, September 28 and marks a significant milestone as IPA USA celebrates its 50th anniversary, bringing together educators, child advocates, and play enthusiasts from across the country and right here in the Upstate. The conference is dedicated to advocating for every child’s right to play, emphasizing its critical role in education and childhood development.
TCMU Supports the Power of Play
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate (TCMU) participated in the IPA conference in Glasgow, Scotland in 2023. TCMU was one of 500 contributors, selected from a pool of over 7,000 applicants, to present research on play-based learning at this international conference. TCMU’s presentation centered on the museum’s innovative school readiness program – Pop Up Classrooms – developed and piloted at TCMU’s Spartanburg location. You can read more of TCMU’s tips for learning through play.
Purpose of the IPA USA Conference
The IPA USA Conference is committed to ensuring every child’s right to a childhood filled with wonder and exploration through play. The 2024 conference will feature 90 sessions over two days, focusing on the importance of play in various educational settings, including nature-based play, child care, and primary to secondary education. The conference will also address the preparation of future educators in colleges, equipping them with the skills to prioritize play in their teaching.
What Attendees Can Expect
Participants will leave the conference:
- Energized and Motivated: Renewed passion for the child’s right to play.
- Equipped with Strategies: Practical tools to advocate for and implement play in various settings.
- Connected: Opportunities to network with like-minded professionals dedicated to protecting and enhancing childhood experiences.
Conference Details
- Expected Attendance: Over 150-200 participants.
- History: This is the 21st conference held by IPA USA, celebrating its 50th anniversary.
- Location: Hosted in Greenville, SC, a city known for its beauty, vibrant main street, and enthusiastic support from The Children’s Museum of the Upstate.
Why Greenville?
Greenville was chosen as the host city for its unique charm and strong community support. The location at Heritage Green, coupled with contributions from local institutions like TCMU and our neighbor, Upcountry History Museum, ensures that the conference is both accessible and affordable for attendees. The conference also includes a free community event called Kids’ Fest in front of the Hughes Main Library on Friday, September 27 from 4-6pm. The event includes fun activities for all ages including craft stations, face painting, and a drum performance. Greenville’s blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy provides an ideal setting for this year’s gathering.
Meet Daniel Burton: Keynote Speaker at IPA USA 2024 Conference
Daniel Burton, the CEO and co-founder of Educated by Nature, is a leading voice in play-based nature education. Established in 2014, Educated by Nature has become a global leader in outdoor learning, merging educational principles with the transformative power of nature. With a rich background as a primary school teacher, education consultant, rites of passage facilitator, and nature connection mentor, Daniel’s work reflects a deep commitment to holistic education.
Educated by Nature: A Pioneer in Outdoor Learning
Under Daniel’s leadership, Educated by Nature has developed innovative, research-based methods of teaching that emphasize outdoor learning. His organization has gained international recognition for its work with thousands of Australian children, helping communities reconnect with the natural world and integrate its values into daily life.
Keynote Sessions at IPA USA 2024
At the IPA USA 2024 Conference, Daniel will lead several key sessions:
- Pre-Conference Workshop: Connecting Children with Nature: A Practical Workshop for Educators.
- Thursday Morning Keynote: Embodying Joy in Outdoor Play and Learning.
- Workshops: Additional sessions focused on enhancing children’s access to nature.
Daniel’s sessions will provide attendees with practical tools and inspiration to incorporate nature and play into their educational environments.
IPA Conference Registration Information
Educators, administrators, homeschool teachers and more are invited to register for the 50th anniversary conference.
- Deadline for Online Registration: September 18th.
- Walk-In Registrations: Available on Wednesday, September 25th, from 2-5 pm, and Thursday, September 26th, from 7-10 am at the Greenville Theater, Lower Lobby.
- Local Participation: Locals are highly encouraged to attend and contribute to this impactful event.
Special Events and Celebrations
The conference will feature several receptions and special events, including:
- 50th Anniversary Celebration: Acknowledging five decades of advocating for play.
- Release of the White Paper: A collection of 60 articles on children’s play research and strategies.
- Doctor of Play and Advocacy Award Celebrations: Honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of play.
- Evening Receptions: The Thursday evening reception will be held at The Upcountry History Museum. The Friday evening reception will be held at TCMU.
- Tour Day (Saturday): A chance to explore Greenville and Spartanburg’s programs and nature settings.
- Final Party (Saturday Evening): Dinner, dancing, and celebration to conclude the conference (additional fee required).
You can find a full conference schedule at IPAUSA.org. Join us for an inspiring and educational experience at the IPA USA 2024 Conference. Together, let’s champion every child’s right to play!
