Dr Sophie Alcock has been involved in early childhood care and education for many years as a practitioner, university lecturer, professional development facilitator, and researcher. Her research focuses on the relational nature and social-emotional-spiritual-cultural dimensions of children’s learning and development in play. Sophie’s interest in children’s play is reflected in her creative approach to understanding the complexities in play. She is a senior lecturer in the School of Education, Te Puna Akopai, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.