1KHO 419: The Secret Language of Children | Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent, The Way of Play

On this episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich dives into the transformative world of play with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent, co-authors of The Way of Play. These experts unpack the science behind why play is far from frivolous—it’s a child’s first language, essential for their emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Together, they explore practical strategies for parents to engage in dyadic play, harness the power of mirror neurons, and foster resilience through small, meaningful interactions. From navigating meltdowns to embracing moments of delight, this conversation is brimming with insights that help parents connect deeply with their children.

Listeners will discover why play is the ultimate tool for building grit, emotional intelligence, and creativity in kids while also stretching parents' own capacity for resilience. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable tips, Dr. Tina and Georgie show how to use play to model problem-solving, handle failure with levity, and create lasting bonds. Whether it’s mirroring a child’s movements or letting nature provide the perfect scaffold for growth, this episode offers a roadmap for raising calm, confident kids who thrive. Prepare to feel inspired and equipped to embrace play as a powerful parenting tool!

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Get your copy of The Way of Play here

Learn more about Dr. Tina Payne Bryson here

Learn more about Georgie Wisen-Vincent and The PlayStrong Institute here

Learn more about The Center for Connection here

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