Active Play Starts With You and Why Parent Engagement Matters Most

Research shows the biggest factor in child development during play isn’t toys or square footage — it’s parent engagement.

In Episode 4 of Active Play, Every Day, Dr. Emily is joined by pediatric occupational therapist Brittni Winslow to talk about why playing with your kids matters so much for development, regulation, and connection.

They discuss how play helps children build real skills, why movement can help kids regulate after a long day, and what parents can do if playing doesn’t come naturally. You’ll also hear practical ideas for making active play easier at home, using simple prompts like “I wonder…,” and helping play stay fun without turning into chaos.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why play is the foundation of child development
• How movement supports emotional regulation and attention
• What to do if playing with your kids feels awkward or hard
• Easy ways to make play more engaging without overcomplicating it

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Active Play, Every Day is sponsored by Nex Playground. The controller-free console and Play Pass subscription offer 60+ active games for kids and adults, including Bluey: Bust a Move, Barbie Dance Party, NFL FLAG Heroes, and Sonic Forces Rival Rush, with new games and updates every month. Learn more at Nex Playground.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.