Using Shadow Play to Teach Science and Storytelling in Young Children

Worksop Title: Using Shadow Play to Teach Science and Storytelling in Young Children

Format: Online, Live, Interactive, Small Group Workshop

Speaker: Susan Frizsell

Hosted by: Dr. Scott Mesh

Date & Time: November 19, 2025 (Wednesday) at 7PM Eastern Time

This workshop offers the following CE Certificate/Credits:

- 1.0 NYSED SW Contact Hours (get a certificate)

- 1.0 CTLE Contact Hours (get a certificate)

- A simple Certificate of Attendance is also available. (not accredited by any organization, just a simple certificate to acknowledge your attendance)

Requirements to obtain your CE Certificate/Credits after the webinar:

- You MUST attend the workshop from start to end (your are monitored on Zoom)

- CAMERA is required on Zoom (must be turned on)

- You MUST answer & submit the evaluation form after the webinar (will be sent via email)

Failure to fulfill requirements may result in delays receiving your certificate/credits, or in some cases, non-receipt of your certificate/credits.

Webinar Description:

Step into the magical world of light and storytelling! Discover how simple materials—like boxes, paper, and flashlights—can be transformed into a shadow theater that sparks creativity and curiosity in young children. Learn the science behind light and shadows, explore how to narrate stories through shadow characters, and gain practical classroom tips to make shadow play a favorite learning center in your classroom. Perfect for early childhood educators looking to blend STEM and literacy in a playful, artistic way!To participate fully, please have the following materials ready:

• A box (pizza box, shipping box, or anything no smaller than a shoebox)
• Box cutter or scissors
• Black paper (cardstock or poster board preferred)
  Sticks (coffee stirrers, popsicle sticks, or skewers)
• Tape
• Flashlight or small desk lamp
• White paper (baking parchment, thin copy paper, or white fabric like an old sheet)
• Animal silhouettes to trace (click here for the printout!)

Objectives:

The participants will be able to…

1. Explain the basic science of light, shadows, and transparency, and how to manipulate light sources to create shadow effects.

2. Demonstrate how to use shadow characters to tell and narrate stories that promote language and literacy development.

3. Identify materials and techniques for setting up a classroom shadow theater or shadow play center.

Speaker's Bio

Susan Frizsell is an award-winning educator, recognized as the Teacher of the Year for Region 8 in North Carolina. With extensive experience in teaching Pre-K, early elementary, and middle school art, she believes that true learning happens when children are fully engaged. Susan’s passion for making education exciting led her to serve as the curriculum coordinator for the Nashville Public Library’s Bringing Books to Life outreach program, where she developed impactful literacy programs.

Now, as the founder of FabFriz Education, Susan continues to inspire both students and educators. Her company offers dynamic school visits and professional development, blending her deep knowledge of education with creativity and a sense of wonder. Susan’s approach ensures that learning is not only educational but also fun, holding firmly to her belief that education should never be boring.

Host's Bio

Dr. Mesh is a clinical psychologist and the co-author of the book “Early Childhood Assessment: A Practical Guide to Psychological and Developmental Evaluations in the Early Intervention Program.” He has worked with families for over 30 years. Dr. Mesh is the Co-Founder and CEO of Los Niños Services, an award-winning Early Childhood Special Education program in New York City, and the Founder of Young Child Learning which provides professional development to teachers and all professionals working with young children. He consults with professionals and parents on the challenges they face in helping young children achieve their full potential. Dr. Mesh is the author of upcoming book Tapas: Tasty Inspirational Poems(www.inspire.nyc).

Cancellation Policy:

If you cancel within 30 days before the event, the registration fee is not refundable. However, you will receive a credit for the registration fee which can be applied to another Young Child Learning event within the following 12 months. The processing fee is non-refundable.