Play isn’t just for children — it’s a vital part of lifelong health and well-being. But what makes play so powerful, and how does it shape the way we interact with the world?

Shelly J. Lane will dive into these questions at the 19th Glen E. Gresham Visiting Lecture on April 11. In her talk, “Understanding Play and Playfulness and their Neural Foundations,” Lane will explore the science behind play, its role in human development and the neural mechanisms that make it such a crucial occupation throughout life.

The lecture takes place from 5-6:30 p.m. in 147 Diefendorf Hall, South Campus, and will also be available virtually via Zoom.

Lane is a professor and academic program director at Colorado State University, where she also directs the Sensory Integration, Play and Occupational Therapy Lab. She holds a joint appointment as a professor of occupational therapy at the University of Newcastle, Australia.

A leader in the field of neuroscience and childhood occupations, Lane has mentored students and scholars across five continents and has contributed extensively to literature on sensory integration and pediatric occupational therapy.

The Glen E. Gresham Visiting Professorship in Rehabilitation Science brings distinguished experts to UB to discuss topics that advance the field. The event is hosted by the Department of Rehabilitation Science in the School of Public Health and Health Professions.