Active Play Starts With You and Why Parent Engagement Matters Most - Episode 4
In Episode 4 of the Active Play, Every Day podcast, Dr. Emily sits down with pediatric occupational therapist Brittni Winslow to discuss the developmental power of play and why playing with your kids matters more than many parents realize.
Many families assume the key to helping kids learn through play is having the right toys, equipment, or play space. But research tells a different story. Studies have shown that the most important factor in child development during play isn’t toys or square footage — it’s parent engagement. [1]
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Play isn’t just something kids do. It’s actually how they grow.
In this episode, Dr. Emily is joined by pediatric occupational therapist Brittni Winslow to break down what’s really happening when kids play… and why it matters more than most parents realize.
Inside the episode, you’ll learn:
Why play is the foundation of child development (and how therapists actually use it to build real skills)
How movement helps kids regulate their emotions, attention, and energy after a long day of sitting
What to do if playing with your kids doesn’t feel natural (you’re not alone)
A simple mindset shift that makes play easier and more engaging — even when you’re tired
Easy ways to keep active play from turning into total chaos (without shutting it down)
You’ll also walk away with practical ideas you can use immediately. If you’ve ever wondered:
“Am I doing enough with my kids?”
“Why are they bouncing off the walls after school?”
“How do I actually play with them?”
This episode is for you!
The Active Play Prescription with Your Kids
At the end of every episode, Dr. Emily writes an Active Play Prescription. Brittni’s prescription for families is simple:
Find one opportunity each day to use active play to shift your mood or energy level.
When families feel tired, stuck, or overwhelmed, even a few minutes of movement together can reset the energy in the room.
Often, that small moment of play leads to more connection and movement.
Resources/References
Study on playing with kids matter more than the space size or toy
Emerge Pediatric Therapy in Durham, Carrboro, and Cary, NC
Brittni’s Free Therapy Resources
Brittni’s Full Pediatric Therapy Resource Center
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Episode Sponsor
This podcast is sponsored by Nex Playground - an active-play gaming system that helps kids move indoors through full-body games that support learning, coordination, and joy!
