How play helps child development and the parent child bond (+ suggested parent child bonding activities) | Episode 7

In today’s episode we talk about the effects of play on child development. More specifically, we get into how play impacts child development. 

We first see the different types of play, how each helps child development, how it can foster the parent-child bond, as well as the ways in which it can even improve our marriage! 

Most importantly, I leave you with parent child bonding activities and attachment building activities so that you can learn how to use play to strengthen the relationship with you child and also foster qualities such as independence, socialization, creativity, innovation and physical strength amongst many others. 

Finally, we explore how our past and our inner child may influence the way WE as adults and parents relate to play and I provide you with journaling prompts so that you can discover your relationship to play, how this influences your child, and how you can go about incorporating more unstructured play in your child’s daily routine. 

See this as a small introduction to play therapy, which can do wonders for our children even when we, as parents, apply it at home. Having fun can be therapeutic for both our children and for us. Hit play and let’s do this!

Find the full transcript HERE.

***Resources mentioned in the episode

Discover your unique approach to play!

Go to markellakaplani.com/playstyle so that you can find out your parenting play style and get personalized tips to make playtime even more effective and enjoyable for both you and your child!

Journaling Prompt Questions

1. Reflect on your childhood play experiences. What were your favorite activities and how did they make you feel? How do these memories influence the way you approach play with your own children? 


2. observe your child's playtime over the next week. What types of play do they naturally gravitate towards? How can you engage and support their interests while keeping play simple and unstructured?


3. Think about the balance between structured activities and unstructured play in your child's routine. Are there any changes you can make to allow for more spontaneous child led play? 


4. Consider your feelings of adequacy and stress as a parent. How can embracing the simplicity of play help you alleviate some of these pressures? What small steps can you take to be more present and engaged during playtime? 

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Markella Kaplani, M.A.

Clinical-Counseling Psychologist

Parenthood & Relationship Coach

Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist

www.markellakaplani.com