Pop Culture Parenting Episode 119: How to play reflection
Oct 20, 2025
This playful discussion dives into the challenges of engaging with kids through play. The hosts examine the important role of educators and how play evolves from childhood to the teenage years. They identify key features of play and explore how adults can reclaim their playful spirit. Insights on co-parenting balance, the benefits of play therapy in processing trauma, and practical tips for neurodivergent parents are shared. Strategies for connecting with hesitant teens and staying present amid distractions round out this lively conversation.
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Prioritise Your Own Playful Time
- Protect time for your own fun and regulation; adults need process-driven play too.
- Role-model playful behaviours so children learn that play is acceptable across ages.
Build Your Play Muscle Deliberately
- Accept that many adults find it hard to play because school and tasks trained different skills.
- Treat play as a muscle to practise: start small, model curiosity, and schedule playful time.
Observe, Hypothesise, Then Ask
- Follow the child's lead in play and avoid directing or solving their play problems immediately.
- Observe, hypothesise and ask curious questions to expand thinking and emotional language.