Growing Language Skills Through Play with Recycled Materials
Dardanelleis Balisi-Lizaso, Yukako Kawaguchi
In this session, educators and parents will learn how recycled materials and natural items promote literacy through play. Hands-on examples and case studies will demonstrate how to create play setups that invite storytelling, communication, and natural language development, fostering literacy-rich environments that nurture children’s curiosity.
Dardanelleis Balisi-Lizaso (Singapore)
Dardanelleis Balisi-Lizaso is an independent writer and early childhood educator whose 32 years of teaching have shaped not just young minds, but hearts as well. Based in Singapore and a mother of five, she draws from the richness of oral storytelling traditions to breathe new life into timeless tales, inviting children to discover the magic in words. With a deep love for physical books, Doli has ventured into self-publishing, sharing stories that kindle curiosity and keep wonder alive. She is passionate about helping children decode words and spurring them to become readers who are hungry for the flavors of words.

Yukako Kawaguchi (Singapore)
Yukako Kawaguchi is an early childhood educator and mother of three, with over 11 years of experience in international settings. She is passionate about asking meaningful questions to challenge the thinking of both children and educators, helping them see the world from diverse perspectives. Yukako cherishes the spontaneous stories children share, believing they serve as essential elements in deepening learning. She also supports parents globally through workshops and coaching, helping them build confidence in their parenting skills and understanding child development.
Programme dates and times are subject to change.