Hello

About Amy Chiu & The Work of Play

​

The Work of Play is a resource hub for early childhood educators, parents, caregivers, and advocates who are reimagining what learning looks and feels like in the early years.

​

My name is Amy Chiu — I’m an educator, child development instructor, and professional development facilitator based in Los Angeles. I’ve worked in early learning spaces for 18 years, supporting children, families, and educators across schools and community-based programs.

​

My work centers on experiential, collaborative learning — approaches that honor children’s voices, protect their rhythms, and deepen our capacity to observe, reflect, and respond with care. I believe that learning emerges through relationship — not compliance — and that every educator and parent deserves tools that align with both research and respect.

​

Nature and play are not separate from learning — they are learning. The natural world invites children to think critically, problem-solve, connect, and regulate. In an age of fast-paced routines and digital distractions, I advocate for slower, sensory-rich, nature-connected experiences that support the whole child. These are not “extras” — they’re the foundation of real, 21st-century learning.

​

At The Work of Play, I create downloadable guides and resources to support reflective practice, emotional attunement, and developmentally rich environments. I also offer professional development sessions for schools and programs looking to strengthen their approach to developmentally responsive and joyful, connected learning.

​

This space was created to slow things down — to give educators and leaders a moment to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with what drew them to this work in the first place.

If you’re here, you probably believe those things too. I’m so glad we’ve found each other.

​

✉️ Interested in working together? You can reach me at info@theworkofplay.com.