Scaling guided play through educational media: bridging theory and practice across diverse global contexts

This paper explores the intersection of theory and industry practice, examining how educational media leverages playful learning to facilitate transfer of learning in children living in diverse global contexts. Central to this discussion is the evolution of Sesame Street , highlighting its strategic shift toward utilizing guided play models. We ground this discussion in Esme & Roy , an animated series that established Sesame Workshop's approach to modeling guided play on screen and show how that approach shaped two future productions: the playful “approaches to learning” curriculum of Sesame Street Seasons 51–52, and Watch, Play, Learn , a suite of early learning videos designed to support children affected by crisis and conflict. Together, these examples demonstrate how intentional media design can support transfer of learning across varied geographic contexts and how theory informs practice, which then further refines theory. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of these advancements for the future of educational media and playful learning.