While many may shy away from the idea of “risky play,” Heather Von Bank encourages it. This talk discusses the importance and benefits of play. Learn how “risky play” supports children’s physical, mental, and social-emotional development. Dr. Heather Von Bank is a Professor and Department Chair of Family Consumer Science at Minnesota State University-Mankato. She teaches courses on Parenting Education, Lifespan Development, and The Role of Play in Development. In 2013, Dr. Von Bank co-authored her first book, "The Power of Playful Learning: The Green Edition”; her most recent publication is an online textbook titled "Lifespan Development: Telling the Human Story." She has presented on the topic of play and development at local, regional, national, and international conferences. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx