Sparking Genius

The Power of Play: Reimagining Creativity in Schools

Episode Summary

Paul Bennett and Maureen Reilly on how creativity and play support learning and what schools can do to keep it alive.

Episode Notes

Creative thinking is a core skill every learner needs. In this episode of Sparking Genius, guest host Lesa Wang, Dwight Head of Design and Global Spark Programs Director, speaks with two bold leaders in design and education: Paul Bennett, former Chief Creative Officer at IDEO, and Maureen Reilly, Head of Building Experience Design at LEGO Design. The conversation explores how creativity and play can be powerful drivers of learning and why they should be protected in classrooms rather than pushed to the margins.

They share stories from their own creative paths, what schools can learn from Denmark’s approach to early learning, and how educators can help young people stay curious, confident, and willing to take risks. They also reflect on how AI is shifting the creative landscape and what skills will matter most going forward. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or student, this episode is full of meaningful takeaways for anyone invested in the future of learning.

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