In this week’s podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Larry Cohen, author of Playful Parenting and founder of Playful Parenting International. We dive into how play can be a powerful tool to help children and parents navigate anxiety, build resilience, and deepen connection. Whether it’s playful role reversals, roughhousing, or simply engaging with your child on their level, Dr. Cohen shares strategies to ease worry and foster joy in your parenting journey.
🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:
The Connection Between Play and Anxiety Relief
Dr. Cohen explains how play strengthens family bonds, creates a sense of safety, and helps children (and parents) release pent-up stress. Learn why playful interactions are key to reducing tension in anxious households.
Empowering Kids Through Play
Discover how role-playing and silly games can help children face their fears—whether it’s a scary bug or a big test. Dr. Cohen demonstrates how reversing roles allows children to feel powerful and in control of their emotions.
Calming the Nervous System with Active Play
Roughhousing, running, and physical games can soothe the fight-or-flight response in children. Dr. Cohen explains why active, somatic play helps children process anxiety better than words or explanations alone.
💡 Key Takeaways for Parents:
➡️ Let Play Be Timeless: Dedicate moments to play without distractions. Set a timer if needed to create a space where you can fully immerse in the joy and flow of play.
➡️ Validate First, Then Play: When your child is anxious, acknowledge their fears before using play to shift their emotional state. This helps them feel understood and opens the door for playful healing.
➡️ Roughhousing Is Healing: Don’t shy away from pillow fights or wrestling games. These physical activities help release nervous energy and signal to the brain that the danger has passed.
➡️ Balance Safety and Risk: Allow children to determine their own level of risk during play. This builds confidence and resilience as they learn to trust their instincts.
👉 Listen now to discover how playful parenting can transform anxiety into connection and confidence for your family.
Want to learn how to become a playful parent? Join me for a 2-hour Brand NEW Virtual Live The Playful Parenting Workshop coming up on Thursday, December 5th at 12pm Central Time.
You feel too overwhelmed or busy for "play time"
✅You're seeking meaningful ways to connect during the holidays
✅You parent a spirited child and need fresh connection strategies
✅You don't want to buy more "stuff" your child doesn't need
✅You value conscious parenting but struggle with perfectionism, feeling like maybe you're just serious and not a playful person
If any of the above sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Click here to learn more about the upcoming Playful Parenting Workshop!
To learn more about Dr. Larry Cohen:
https://www.playfulparenting.com/
To subscribe to Dr. Cohen’s newsletter, send an email to: larjack@playfulparenting.com.
Connect with Dajana Yoakley
Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.
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Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course
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