The Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention

Hey Friends~ Have you ever found yourself thinking, "Why isn't my child listening?" Or wondering why they can do something one day but seem completely unable the next? Before we assume it's defiance, laziness, or a bad attitude, what if we asked a different question: What if communication is what's hard? For the past three months, we've been exploring the many ways communication can get disrupted—both in understanding and in expressing. Today, I'm bringing the whole series together so you can see the big picture and walk away with practical ideas to help your child communicate with greater confidence and success. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com Have a QUESTION or COMMENT? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play WEBSITE: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Parent Group 👉 Sign up for Speech & Language Support for Preschool Families: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/store/p/summer-speech-language-support-for-preschool-families SPONSORS: Clever EllyThe a car charger that talks to you. Click here to learn more and claim the special listener bonus! https://cleverelly.com/r?id=246rdm Sarah Lascano: RayZen Energy Free Guide: Heal Faster, Live Freer: Find and Clear the Energetic Roots of Symptoms: https://www.rayzenenergy.com/a/2148155983/Z7tWVm2L Penelope Jane Smith: Real Prosperity Inc. Link for FREE financial guide ebook: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/FFF/dinalynn Summer Support Bundle: Lisa Corricello McDowell Sign up here: bit.ly/summersupportbundle The “WHEN COMMUNICATION IS HARD” Series: 253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1 254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2 255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3 257 When Communication is Hard: Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays, DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5 262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC, part 6 264 When Communication Is Hard: Downs Syndrome, Genetic Syndromes, Learning Differences, part 7 265 When Communication Is Hard: Brain Injury, Seizures, and Communication Regression, part 8 269 When Communication Is Hard: Selective Mutism and Anxiety-Based Speech Challenges, part 9 WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU! Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Hey Friends~ If you’ve ever wondered why communication feels hard for your child—and confusing for you—this series is for you. In this opening conversation, I’m laying the groundwork for the entire series titled, “When Communication Is Hard”. We’ll talk about the many reasons communication can break down PLUS strategies that will help you identify what is happening and something to try! This podcast is to help those who want to know more and do what is EFFECTIVE - not just do more. Welcome to this series titled, “When Communication Is Hard.” My goals are simple: to help you feel oriented, not blamed, to get a bigger picture so you feel less alone, and of course, to feel confident with strategies that work! Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com COMMENT? QUESTION? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play WANT TO WORK WITH ME? Let’s talk: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE: February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors Constance Lewis: Emotions Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/ Jason Heffler: Children's Speech Disorders Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler Terry Lilga: Rhyming Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/ Claire Miller: Storytelling With Kids Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk Rella B: Life Lessons Connect: https://rellabbooks.com/ “Bye to Burnout Bundle” for the Homeschool Moms Sign up for Resources! Included is your entrance into my talk with Q&A titled, “Does My Homeschool Child Qualify for Speech Therapy?” I talk plainly about qualification and answer your questions. Bundle Quick Link: https://www.maliaphelpswaller.com/bye-to-burnout-bundle Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!! 2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿✔ Meaningful conversations, ✔ Nature-based experiences, ✔ Build courage + confidence, ✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed) Learn more: https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat Use checkout code for your savings (Valid thru Feb 28, 2026)PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of FourListen to 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica! IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, HERE ARE OTHER AUTHOR YOU WILL ENJOY: 226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings 214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience 218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words 243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection 252 Rella B: You Get the Work Done, They Think It’s Play - Turning Chores Into Connection YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 “Play is…” downloadable: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662 Newsletter Sign up: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Hey Friends~ Have you ever thought, “I understand my child just fine… so maybe their speech isn’t really a problem” ? Or wondered, “Maybe they’ll just grow out of their listening struggles as they grow,” but the waiting is really hard! You’re not alone. And you’re not wrong for wondering! Some of the most common beliefs—ones that make complete sense to caring parents—can quietly delay the support kids need for speech, listening, and learning. In this episode, we’re busting a few of those myths. Not with judgment. Just clear, compassionate, and practical insight you can use right away. If you’ve ever wondered whether something really matters for your toddler, preschooler, or young elementary-age child, and asked yourself, “Is this just a phase they’ll grow out of?” Then, this episode is for you. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com COMMENT? QUESTION? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 “Play is…” Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com APPROVED RESOURCE AND OPPORTUNITY: Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!! 2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed) Learn more from Jackie: https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat Use checkout code for your savings investment: PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual TicketPLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026Listen to Jackie on The Language Of Play: 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica! IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL ENJOY THESE EPISODES: 189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills 204 A Simple Direction Made Your Child Burst Into Tears? Let’s Look At How The Brain Processed That! 245 Toys That Create Calm: Helping Toddlers With Transitions and Meltdowns During the Holidays 250 What I Have Learned After 250 Episodes! TO REVIEW, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, DONATE, SPONSOR: LOVE THIS PODCAST? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

Hey Friends~ Today’s conversation is unusual for this podcast, but an important one. Over half of marriages end in divorce, and about 30% of those become high-conflict - deeply impacting children. This week, I’m joined by Lisa Johnson, a high-conflict divorce coach, to unpack the often-misunderstood topic of coercive control. We talk about what it is, the red flags within relationships, how it shows up during divorce and custody battles. We also explore Jennifers' Law. We discuss how it recognizes the many non-physical forms of abuse. Lisa shares how children are victims, used as weapons in adult conflict, along with ways parents can begin rebuilding secure bonds after trauma. ⚠️ Listener Advisory: This episode covers sensitive material and is intended for a mature audience. Parents should use discretion with younger listeners. I still hope you TUNE IN! Because understanding coercive control could make a life-changing difference for you or someone you love. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com ABOUT THE GUEST: Lisa Johnson is the co-founder of Been There Got Out, a high conflict divorce strategist and certified domestic violence advocate who has successfully represented herself through scores of court appearances. Her case, published in the Connecticut Law Journal, is being used as legal precedent. Her live testimony helped pass Jennifers’ Law in Connecticut, the third state in America to expand its legal definition of domestic violence to include “coercive control.” She and her partner, Chris coach people in high-conflict relationships, divorce, custody battles, and co-parenting hell so they have the chance of the best outcome in family court and beyond. They also offer a weekly Legal Abuse Support Group for those dealing with narcissistic opponents in legal matters. Their book, "Been There Got Out: Toxic Relationships, High-Conflict Divorce, and How to Stay Sane Under Insane Circumstances'' was released in March 2023. Their first course, “How to Communicate with Your Ex Without Destroying Your Case or Losing Your Mind” is out now! CONTACT THE GUEST: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/been_there_got_out/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeenThereGotOut Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeenThereGotOut TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@been_there_got_out LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/been-there-got-out/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeenThereGotOut Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Been_There_Got_Out/ Podcast: https://beentheregotout.buzzsprout.com/ YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com IF THIS EPISODE WAS HELPFUL, HERE ARE RELATED TOPICS: 246 Dr. Marcus: Are you a soothing presence for your child? 226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings 188 Susanna Peace Lovell: Is Your True Self Enough? Lessons Learned In Parenting A Child With Autism 185 Anastasia Arauz Unraveling the Magic of Play Therapy in Child Development Love this podcast? Leave a Review: https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR! Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com 2026 Family Talks Retreat in Costa Ric

Hey Friends~ The kitchen isn’t just about food. It’s about connection. Some of the most meaningful conversations happen while hands are busy - pulling grapes off stems, chopping, stirring. That’s often when kids open up about friendships, worries, or their day. The kitchen becomes the heart of the home. In this episode, Misa, helps families navigate the kitchen in a way that builds skills and relationships, especially when picky eating is part of the story! We talk about how to move beyond power struggles, how to invite kids into the kitchen without pressure, and how to grow communication, confidence, and nutrition together. And even if picky eating isn’t your main concern, this conversation will help you see how the kitchen can become a place of connection for every member of your family. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com Have a question? Topic you want addressed? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play ABOUT THE GUEST: Misa is a Certified Health Coach, Culinary Nutritionist, and the founder of Misa’s Clean Kitchen. After navigating her own journey with a picky eater, who was diagnosed with Failure to Thrive, she became passionate about helping parents raise adventurous eaters without the mealtime battles. With 10 years of teaching experience, she shares practical tips, easy recipes, and real-life strategies to help you cook one meal the whole family will enjoy. CONTACT THE GUEST: misascleankitchen4@gmail.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/misascleankitchen/ Website: https://www.misascleankitchen.com Get the Taste-O-Meter here: https://misascleankitchen.myflodesk.com/tasteometer YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 95 Do You Have A Picky Eater? Have a Holiday Plan! Join For A Success Story with Everyday Parent, Kristi! 115 - 3 Ways To Ensure Travel With Kids Is Enjoyable! 118 Diann Alexander: Does The Chaos Of Your Home Life Feel Like “A Theater Of Little People”? 122 Is Your Spouse Your Best Parenting Partner? Tips For Getting The Support You Need Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR! Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com