Holding Space

Author: Dr. Cassidy Freitas

Hey parents, tune in as Dr. Cassidy Freitas holds space for conversations with experts from around the world and parents who have been through it. With a background in Marriage and Family Therapy, Dr. Cassidy offers education in topics ranging from pregnancy, fertility, postpartum, parenting, partner relationships, emotional wellness, creative living and more! This podcast is not a substitute for therapy and if you're struggling you should seek help from a licensed provider in your area. Follow for more @drcassidy and you can learn more about her California-based private practice at www.drcassidymft.com.
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Language: en

Genres: Health & Fitness, Kids & Family, Mental Health, Parenting

Contact email: Get it

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157: Micro Moments of Play (For the Parent Who's Tired) with Dr. Kim Van Dusen
Monday, 4 May, 2026

In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Kim Van Dusen — one of my very first podcast guests ever — to talk about her new book Parenting Through Play.Together we explore why play is such a powerful entry point for connection, regulation, and even repair with our kids. Dr. Kim helps those of us who don't always feel like getting on the floor to play (hi, it's me) by introducing the idea of "purposeful play pockets" — micro moments of novelty and playfulness woven throughout the day that don't require a ton of energy or capacity. Think: swapping a fork for a pair of tongs at dinner, or a small mindset shift at clean-up time.We also talk about:The myth that play has to mean sitting on the floor for hours of pretendReconnecting with your own inner child (especially if you didn't grow up in a playful home)Why play and power struggles both take energy...and which one you'd rather spend it onUsing play as a tool for repairHow play can help kids work through big transitions, sibling dynamics, separation anxiety, and fearThe invisible mental load that comes with parenting and with being the "fun" oneThe legacy we leave when our kids learn to use play to connect, communicate, and repairTo learn more from Dr. Kim and grab a copy of Parenting Through Play, visit theparentologist.com/book and follow along on Instagram @theparentologist.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy