Play as a Parenting Tool with Dr. Kim Van Dusen

Play as a Parenting Tool with Dr. Kim Van Dusen

From Become A Calm Mama by Darlynn Childress

June 11, 2026 · 49 min · Season 2 · Episode 23

About this episode

Dr. Kim Van Dusen discusses how to use play as a powerful tool in parenting.

Today, I've invited The Parentologist , Dr. Kim Van Dusen, to teach us about how to make parenting easier using play. Dr. Kim Van Dusen is a licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist, and parenting expert specializing in early childhood through adolescence. With more than two decades of experience as a clinician, educator, and public speaker, she works with families to support emotional regulation, positive behavior, and stronger parent–child relationships. In her book, Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication , Dr. Kim walks parents through 3 evidence-based modalities: play therapy, solution-focused therapy, and positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS). We're talking about ways you can bring more play into your life and how to and turn charged moments into connection. Read the full show notes at www.calmmamacoaching.com/blog You'll Learn: Why play is such a powerful parenting tool 4 common myths about play - and the truth behind them The moment when Dr. Kim leaned into play with her kids and why it still stands out in her memory years later How to fit “purposeful…

People in this episode

Host: Darlynn Childress

Guest: Dr. Kim Van Dusen

Topics covered

  • play in parenting
  • emotional regulation
  • parent-child relationships
  • play therapy
  • positive behavior interventions

Keywords

  • parenting
  • play therapy
  • emotional regulation
  • positive behavior
  • parent-child connection

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Parentologist

Books & works: Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication

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