Stories
The Science and Spirit of Play: A Conversation with the National Institute for Play
October 3, 2025
The Aspen Country Day School community had the opportunity this week to hear from Mia Sundstrom, Director for Play Transformation at the National Institute for Play (NIFP) and granddaughter of NIFP founder, Dr. Stuart Brown. Mia’s talk, Leveraging the Power of Play for Learning, explored what neuroscience now confirms: play isn’t a diversion from real work or learning—it is learning.
Mia shared insights into how play activates the neural pathways that allow creativity and empathy to flourish. She reminded us that play is not just for children—it’s a lifelong catalyst for innovation, wellbeing, and community building. Whether in classrooms, at home, or in organizations, the simple act of playing can open doors to stronger relationships, more effective learning, and more authentic expression.
“Mia really illuminated the interface between neuroscience and the age-old practice of play in both students and adults,” said ACDS Head of Lower School Adam Hancock.
The National Institute for Play has long been recognized as the global thought leader in the neuroscience of play. Dr. Brown’s groundbreaking research has shown that play is not a luxury, but a biological necessity. NIP’s work, featured across major media platforms including National Geographic, BBC, CNN, NPR, PBS, and TED, continues to illuminate how play shapes brain development, emotional resilience, problem-solving, and social connection across a lifetime.
Her message was deeply personal as well. As a former NCAA Division I gymnast and coach at the University of Denver, Mia connected the science of play to her own journey as an athlete, student, leader, and now professional advocate. Carrying forward her grandfather’s legacy, she is working to ensure that the transformative power of play is recognized, celebrated, and applied around the world.
The session ended with an important reminder: play is hardwired into our brains. It fuels growth, strengthens community, and sparks the joy that makes us fully human.
“It reaffirmed how the power of play has such a profound impact on children’s well-being,” said ACDS Fourth Grade teacher Kerry McGonigle.