Listen "E18 Making Play Work (Part 3): Parent Roles in Play - Becoming the Dance Partner"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode, we explore the four common parent roles in play: the Performer, the Director, the Watcher, and the Dance Partner. Each role has its place - sometimes kids need a little entertainment, sometimes they need teaching, and sometimes they need space.
But the role that supports communication, connection, and deeper engagement the most? The Dance Partner. This is where play starts to feel like a back-and-forth conversation - a serve-and-return moment where your child leads and you respond, without taking over.
I break down what each role looks like, why you might naturally fall into one more than others, and how small shifts can help you move toward being a responsive, connected dance partner in play. Perfect for parents who want to support development without feeling like they need to constantly entertain or instruct.
But the role that supports communication, connection, and deeper engagement the most? The Dance Partner. This is where play starts to feel like a back-and-forth conversation - a serve-and-return moment where your child leads and you respond, without taking over.
I break down what each role looks like, why you might naturally fall into one more than others, and how small shifts can help you move toward being a responsive, connected dance partner in play. Perfect for parents who want to support development without feeling like they need to constantly entertain or instruct.
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