Welcome to the Wired To Play podcast

Where learning meets play

Big discoveries, little moments, and real conversations about the wonderful ways children learn.

What we talk about

A world that celebrates learning through play

What if the moments that look like “just play” are actually where some of the most important learning happens?

From brain development and school readiness to big feelings, friendships, and everyday discoveries, we’re here to explore what young children really need to thrive.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, there’s always something new to discover. And you’re invited to the conversation.

Our vision

A world where every child has the freedom to learn, grow, and thrive through play.

We believe the first eight years of life deserve to be filled with curiosity, connection, and meaningful play.

Our vision is to help families and educators recognize the power of play and create experiences that support every child’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.

Because childhood isn’t something to rush through. It’s something to build upon.

Meet your hosts

Two educators. Decades of experience. One big love for play.

Wired to Play grew from the many conversations Dr. Christie McPeck and Jeni Gonzalez have shared about children, learning, and what really matters in early childhood.

With over 40 years of school leadership, Christie brings a lifetime of experience and a passion for helping children learn the way they naturally do. Jeni brings her own wealth of experience as a preschool director, educator, and parent.

Together, they’re educators, mentors, and lifelong advocates for children, with plenty of stories, laughter, and honest opinions to share.

Now they’re inviting you into the conversation, turning decades of experience into relatable discussions that make childhood development easier to understand and the joy of play impossible to overlook.

Our Values

Developmentally Appropriate Education

Childhood isn’t a race. We believe in learning experiences that respect each child’s age, abilities, and individual pace.

Children first

Every child deserves to feel supported, understood, and free to discover what they’re capable of.

Play is powerful

Play is more than fun. It’s how children explore their world, build important skills, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning.

Science made human

We bring child development research into everyday conversations, making it easier to understand and put into practice.

Real conversations

Honest stories, fresh perspectives, a little laughter, and plenty of room for questions. We’re learning and growing together.

Homes and Classrooms, Together

Children thrive when families and educators work as a team, creating meaningful opportunities to learn through play.

Play Is for Everyone

Every child deserves access to joyful, meaningful learning experiences that celebrate their unique abilities, backgrounds, and perspectives.

We believe understanding how children learn can change how we teach, parent, and connect with them.

And sometimes, all it takes is seeing play through a new lens.

Come get curious with us!