Why Play Is the Missing Piece in Your Parenting (With Dr. Kim Van Dusen)
Why Play Is the Missing Piece in Your Parenting (With Dr. Kim Van Dusen)  
Podcast: The Art of Raising Humans
Published On: Mon May 04 2026
Description: What if one of the most powerful tools in parenting is something most of us overlook?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kim Van Dusen to talk about the role of play in building connection, improving behavior, and helping children navigate big emotions. Many parents think of play as something extra — something fun if there is time. But as Dr. Kim explains, play is not just entertainment. It is one of the most effective ways to build trust, teach emotional skills, and create the kind of relationship that actually influences behavior.We talk about how to balance connection and boundaries, what to do when kids have big reactions, and how simple, playful moments throughout the day can completely shift the tone of your home. If you’ve ever felt stuck in power struggles, overwhelmed by big emotions, or unsure how to connect with your child in the middle of hard moments, this conversation will give you practical and realistic ways to start.In this episode, we cover:Why play is more than just fun — it is a powerful parenting toolHow connection through play can improve behavior over timeThe balance between boundaries and connectionHow to respond to big feelings without losing your footingPractical ways to use play during transitions, meltdowns, and everyday momentsWhy some parents struggle to engage in play and how to overcome itHow play builds trust, safety, and emotional resilience in childrenPractical takeaways for parents:Look for small “playful pockets” throughout the dayUse simple tools like visual timers to ease transitionsCreate small rituals that build connectionFocus on your own regulation as the foundationBe willing to step into your child’s world — even briefly About our guest:Dr. Kim Van Dusen is a therapist and parenting expert who helps families build stronger relationships through connection and play. Her work focuses on helping parents navigate behavior, emotions, and everyday challenges in a way that builds trust and long-term resilience. Resources:Parenting Through Play (Book): AmazonAmazon.comWebsite: Kimvandusenkimvandusen.comInstagram: Instagraminstagram.com/theparentologist View the full podcast transcript at: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/why-play-is-the-missing-piece-in-your-parenting-with-dr-kim-van-dusen Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey. Resource Website: https://www.artofraisinghumans.comVideo Courses: https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumansInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumansPodcast Website: https://www.theartofraisinghumans.comBook List:https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.