A Conference Experience Like No Other: The Play Zones
Get ready to PLAY, explore, and connect in our three incredible Play Zones! Our Play Zones are spaces where educators and play advocates can explore, connect, and rediscover the joy of play
From hands-on creativity in the Immersive Play Lab, to thought-provoking discussions in the Conversation Café, to laughter and connection in the Board Game Café, or rest and recharge in our Calming Sensory Space. Each Play Zone offers a unique way to explore the many languages of play.
Here, play isn’t just something we talk about – it’s something we live. These spaces remind us that when adults play, reflect, and imagine, we open doors to deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and renewed passion for our work with children.
So, come ready to explore, reflect, and celebrate the Right to Play – because at Illuminate, play is the spark that connects us all. Here, play isn’t just what we talk about – it’s what we do!
Immersive Play Lab
Step into a world of creativity, discovery, and joyful experimentation! The Immersive Play Lab invites adults to explore hands-on play experiences that spark inspiration for your own learning environments. Move between our Black & White Atelier, Box Construction play, Exploring Wind Movement, Sound Lab, and our Multi-tiered Sensory Exploration Space. Each designed to help you reconnect with your inner child and the power of open-ended exploration.
After you play, pause and reflect at our interactive reflection boards to connect your experience with the child’s right to play. Reflect and share your thoughts for a chance to win a door prize at the end of the conference!
Conversation Cafe
Grab a cozy seat and a cup of inspiration! At the Conversation Café, you’ll find space to slow down, reflect, and engage in meaningful dialogue with fellow participants, and our special Guest Curiosity Companions.
Each café conversation invites you to explore ideas that matter most to our field, such as:
- Leadership in Play
- Diversity & Inclusion in Play
- Play Advocacy
- Academics of Play
- Play Research
Or start a conversation of your own! Share ideas, reflect, and connect. Don’t forget, engaging in meaningful conversations earns you a chance to win a door prize at the end of the conference.
Sponsored by Inspired Minds ECC – where Protectors of Play connect!
Board Game Cafe
Take a play break and roll into some fun at our Board Game Café. Whether you’re new to gaming or a seasoned strategist, this space invites you to sit, laugh, and connect through play.
Explore a wide range of games, from quick and lighthearted to thoughtful and strategic, to suit every kind of player. You’ll also have the chance to experience Indigenous-designed games, celebrating culture and connection through play.
Discover how tabletop games can inspire joy, collaboration, and creative thinking in any learning environment — and yes, play for your chance to win a door prize at the end of the conference!
This space is hosted by the amazing team from Pe Metawe Games!
Calming Sensory Space
A quiet, welcoming space designed for anyone who needs a break from the energy and busyness of the conference. Step away from the activities, reduce sensory input, sit in silence, and take the time you need to pause, reset, and recharge before returning to your conference experience.
We encourage everyone to take a peek inside and become familiar with this restorative space. There is no door prize activity in the Calming Sensory Room so that it can remain peaceful and uninterrupted. If someone is using the room, please enter quietly, or give them time and space, and be mindful of their need for calm and rest.
We are grateful to Education Station for sponsoring this important space and helping us create a conference environment that recognizes and supports the diverse needs of our community.
AECPCN 