Parenting Through Play: The Missing Link Between Discipline and Connection w Dr. Kim Van Dusen | E191

In this episode, Andryanna sits down with Dr. Kim Van Dusen, licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist, professor, and author of the upcoming book Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication.

For parents who feel stuck in cycles of correcting, negotiating, and repeating themselves, Dr. Kim explains why play is one of the most powerful tools for improving behaviour, strengthening connection, and regulating a child’s nervous system.

Together, they explore how playful interactions can reduce conflict, reinforce boundaries, and help parents move from constant correction to deeper connection.

In this episode:

• Why traditional discipline often leads to power struggles;

• What’s happening psychologically during behaviour conflicts;

• How play regulates the nervous system and reduces stress;

• Turning challenging behaviour into playful interventions;

• Simple 5-minute play resets for overwhelmed parents;

• How play strengthens boundaries instead of weakening them;

• What playful parenting builds in children long-term.

This episode builds on the idea explored in episode 186, behaviour is communication, and offers practical tools for parents who want less conflict and more connection at home.

CONNECT WITH DR. KIM 
The Parentologist

Pre-Order Dr. Kim's Book, Parenting Through Play: https://theparentologist.com/book/

On Instagram 
The Parentologist Podcast 

CONNECT WITH ANDRYANNA:

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Keywords:

parenting through play, positive discipline, child behavior psychology, play therapy, parenting tips, co-regulation, connection before correction, gentle parenting tools, parent child connection, playful parenting, juggling life, juggling work and family, juggling family and work, juggling family and career, working mom podcast, juggling careers and family, parenting career juggling