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  • Residential Retreat: Hosted By Scholar's Choice

    A Restorative Experience Rooted in Play.

Return to Play: Reconnecting with the Foundations of Early Learning

A Residential Learning Retreat for Early Childhood Educators

Set within the peaceful surroundings of Oakwood Resort in Grand Bend, this retreat offers educators the opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the joy and purpose at the heart of early learning. Through hands-on exploration, meaningful dialogue, creative experiences, and reflective practice, participants will revisit the core principles of play-based learning while making space for personal and professional renewal.

Alice Sharp’s thoughtful approach to everyday practice, Return to Play blends pedagogy with relaxation, creativity, and connection—leaving educators feeling refreshed, re-energized, and grounded in both their practice and themselves.

Grand Bend, Ontario

Oakwood Resort

We are holding our event at Oakwood Resorts located in Grand Bend, Ontario, approximately 70 km (about 45–60 minutes' drive) northwest of London, Ontario. Tucked along the shores of Lake Huron in the heart of Grand Bend, Oakwood Resort has been a place where memories are made for over a century. From lakefront sunsets to leisurely rounds of golf, cozy accommodations to unforgettable celebrations, this is where relaxation meets experience.

View Oakwood Resort

View Oakwood Resort

Comfort Meets Convenience

Comfort Meets Convenience

Showcasing Culinary Expertise

Showcasing Culinary Expertise

Featured Presenters

Alice Sharp - Featured Presenter
Alice Sharp is a highly respected early childhood educator, consultant, and speaker with over 30 years of experience. Known for her dynamic and innovative approach, she brings a deep understanding of children, relationships, and everyday practice. Her work is rooted in curiosity about people—what drives them, how they learn, and how meaningful connections shape experiences for both children and educators. She is widely recognised nationally and internationally for translating theory into rich, experiential learning. Through her work as a keynote speaker, writer, and consultant, Alice supports educators in reconnecting with the foundations of early learning. Her sessions are engaging, reflective, and practical, leaving participants inspired and empowered.
Marie Richardson- Presenter
Marie brings over 25 years of experience in the field of early childhood education, with a career dedicated to supporting both children and the educators who guide them. She is an inspiring and motivational presenter, known for her engaging approach to early years training and ongoing professional development. Marie’s work is grounded in a deep understanding of play, relationships, and reflective practice. She creates meaningful learning experiences that encourage educators to think critically, share perspectives, and grow in confidence within their roles. Her sessions are both practical and thought-provoking, leaving participants feeling energized, supported, and empowered to enhance their everyday practice.


Emily Webster- Host, Scholar's Choice
Emily has been working alongside the parent, teacher, and childcare community at Scholar’s Choice for over eight years. However, as Scholar’s Choice is a family business, she has been immersed in its culture and community since birth. She holds a degree in Communications and Cultural Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University and currently serves as Social Media and Partnerships Coordinator for Scholar’s Choice. In this role, she develops ideas and solutions to help the community engage children through the Playful Learning Approach, supporting young learners in developing a love of learning and the confidence to pursue their hopes and dreams.


Scholar's Choice Is your partner in play!

Follow Us @scholarschoice for featured activities!

We are focused on providing playful learning solutions and ideas to our community to give every child a reason to love learning.

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