Current Course Schedule

Make-Believe Gun Play in a World of Gun Violence

Gun violence is a uniquely American phenomenon—one that impacts children, families, teachers, and school communities throughout the nation. We will explore the context surrounding gun violence in the US, and examine the complex relationship between gun violence and children’s play. Participants will have time to explore their own experiences of children's pretend play, as well as school and classroom policies that might impact their work in the classroom. The session will utilize whole group, pair-share, and individual reflection.
  • Course Number
    TEWS869N
  • Focus On
    Pre-k - 2nd Grade
  • Category
    Childhood / Elementary School, Early Childhood, Online
  • Registration Options and Cost
    $120 3.0 CTLE or 0.3 CEU

Sections

Summer 2 2025

  • Section 1:
    Date(s)
    July 15 | Online
    Day and Time
    Tuesday, 5:30 PM–8:00 PM ET
    Registration Deadline
    Jul 8, 2025
    Register
    • Nicole Limperopulos
      Nicole Limperopulos
      Nicole Limperopulos is a faculty member in the Bank Street Leadership Department,, where she teaches courses in transformational change, qualitative research, and racial literacy. She also serves as the co-director of the Programs in Education Leadership, providing support for the daily operations and overall integrity of the department’s external, partnership, and competency-based programs. In addition, Limperolulos conducts research that examines gun violence in urban schools and communities. Her scholarship seeks to capture the lived experiences and perspectives of young people who have experienced gun violence. Additional areas of her research include the care-focused leadership and the practice of care in schools. Prior to joining the faculty at Bank Street, Limperopulos served as the associate director of the principals academy at Teachers College, Columbia University. Before moving into higher education, she served as a high school history teacher and administrator in Harlem and the South Bronx.
"The class was full of background, history, and current state of gun violence and response to children's use of pretend play and make-believe gunplay."

"The instructor was excellent - knowledgeable, engaging, and very good at facilitating a great discussion."

" I gained that much more information about the "why " so many people are uncomfortable with pretend/make-believe gunplay and gained more confidence in the counter argument to the connection between it and future violence."

"I learned about the research around gun play/gun violence and the importance of letting young children engage in gun play."