The Art of Playful Parenting
Ever wish you had access to a play and parenting coach who could help you feel less overwhelmed and burnt out and more empowered as a parent? That’s what you experience once a week by listening to The Art of Playful Parenting Podcast hosted by Jill Lerman. With 15 years of experience working with young children and their families, Jill brings an informed perspective and wealth of simple strategies and ideas to support you on your parenting journey. You’ll leave listening to each episode inspired to keep it simple, while feeling empowered to become the parent you always wanted to be.
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Ep. 100: What 100 Episodes Have Taught Me About Play, Parenting, & Connection
08/07/2026
Ep. 100: What 100 Episodes Have Taught Me About Play, Parenting, & Connection
In this special 100th episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill reflects on the incredible conversations, stories, and lessons that have shaped the podcast over the years. After 100 episodes, countless conversations with experts, and so many shared stories, Jill reflects on what she knows to be true about playful parenting and what she hopes every parent takes with them on their own journey. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 99: The Parenting Tool You're Probably Forgetting: Play
07/31/2026
Ep. 99: The Parenting Tool You're Probably Forgetting: Play
In this solo episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill explores why play isn't just something children do, but one of the most powerful parenting tools we have. Through a relatable story about helping her daughter navigate a difficult transition, Jill shares how a simple playful moment transformed a potential power struggle into connection. Drawing on child development research and lessons we can all learn from Bluey, she explains why play helps children regulate, cooperate, and feel secure. You'll also walk away with three simple, practical ways to bring more playfulness into your everyday routines. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 98: Why Your Child Isn't Listening: Understanding Challenging Behavior
07/24/2026
Ep. 98: Why Your Child Isn't Listening: Understanding Challenging Behavior
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill explores one of the biggest questions parents ask: Is this misbehavior, or is my child trying to communicate a need? Through real-life examples, she unpacks what may be underneath common behaviors. Jill discusses why behavior is communication, why children don't always have access to the skills they know, and how shifting from frustration to curiosity can transform the way parents respond. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 97: What Teaching Preschool Taught Me About Parenting
07/17/2026
Ep. 97: What Teaching Preschool Taught Me About Parenting
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill shares the lessons that followed her home from her days as a preschool teacher and shaped the way she approaches parenting today. She discusses: Why children’s behavior is communication How play supports learning and development Seeing children as capable and curious Why connection comes before correction The importance of having a plan while staying flexible What motherhood has taught her about letting go of perfection A reflection on child development, play, and the powerful lessons children teach us when we slow down and truly see them. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 96: The Modern Dad: Balancing Ambition, Presence, & Playful Parenting with Jeff Hittner
07/10/2026
Ep. 96: The Modern Dad: Balancing Ambition, Presence, & Playful Parenting with Jeff Hittner
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill welcomes her first dad guest, Jeff Hittner, executive coach, founder of Ambitious Dads, and father of two boys. Together, they explore what it means to redefine fatherhood, balance ambition with presence, and build meaningful connections through play. Jeff shares his personal journey to fatherhood, the lessons he's learned about leadership at home, and why showing up with intention matters more than striving for perfection. They discuss practical strategies for connecting with your child, even when play doesn't come naturally or your play style looks very different from theirs. Whether you're a mom, dad, or caregiver, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into raising connected, resilient kids and creating stronger family relationships. Learn more about Jeff's work and join the Ambitious Dads community: Website: Substack: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 95: Simple Summer Rhythms for Kids
07/03/2026
Ep. 95: Simple Summer Rhythms for Kids
Looking for simple summer play ideas that don't require hours of planning? In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill explores how to create flexible summer rhythms that help children feel calm, connected, and ready to play. Whether your kids are home for the summer or coming home from camp each day, you'll learn how to use play as a tool for regulation, discover easy low-prep play ideas, and build after-camp reset routines that support your child's nervous system. We also talk about the increased mental load parents carry during the summer, why the idea of "bringing back '90s summers'" isn't realistic for many families, and how to let go of the pressure to create a perfect summer. If you're looking for practical parenting tips, simple play inspiration, and realistic ways to make summer feel more manageable, this episode is for you. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 94: What to Do When You’re Not at Your Best as a Parent
06/26/2026
Ep. 94: What to Do When You’re Not at Your Best as a Parent
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill explores what it really looks like to parent when you are not at your best. She breaks down why so many parents feel pressure to show up fully resourced, and why real-life parenting often happens in moments of exhaustion, overwhelm, and depletion. Jill shares practical, low-lift strategies for those harder days, including how to lower the “activation energy” for play, simplify daily expectations, and use independent play as a valid and valuable part of the child’s day rather than a fallback. Listeners will walk away with permission to lower the bar, trust the basics, and feel more supported on the days when parenting feels hardest. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 93: The Truth About Uneven Giftedness
06/19/2026
Ep. 93: The Truth About Uneven Giftedness
In this episode, Jill explores what it means to be unevenly gifted and why some children can appear remarkably advanced in one area while struggling significantly in another. She breaks down the concept of asynchronous development, explains why giftedness often coexists with challenges in emotional regulation, executive functioning, sensory processing, and social skills, and discusses why these developmental differences can be so confusing for parents and educators. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 92: Simplifying Playful Parenting with Beth Rosenbleeth from @DayswithGrey
06/12/2026
Ep. 92: Simplifying Playful Parenting with Beth Rosenbleeth from @DayswithGrey
In this episode, Jill welcomes Beth Rosenbleeth. Beth, creator of the popular blog and Instagram account Days with Grey, simplifies routines and promotes play-based learning for young children. She's a former teacher and a mom of three whose strategies and activity ideas resonate with her 275,000+ Instagram followers. Jill and Beth explore the connection between quality time and independent play, easy ways to encourage creativity using everyday materials, and the value of open-ended toys that grow with children. This episode was also motherhood at its finest. Jill's infant decided to boycott her nap, make a guest appearance during the recording, and even spit up on Jill mid-conversation. As a mom of three boys, Beth completely got it and rolled with it right alongside her! They also talk about sibling dynamics, sensory play, screen time, and why life skills are just as important as academics when preparing children for kindergarten. Filled with practical tips and realistic strategies, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to bring more play into your home without adding more to your to-do list. Check out Beth’s amazing resources, including activity cards and life skills cards, . Follow Beth on Check out Beth’s blog and website . The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 91: "Because I Said So" and Other Parenting Advice I Ignore
06/05/2026
Ep. 91: "Because I Said So" and Other Parenting Advice I Ignore
In this episode, Jill takes a look at some of the parenting advice many of us grew up hearing and why it may not hold up when viewed through a modern understanding of child development. She unpacks the assumptions behind these common phrases and offers a more nuanced, connection-based perspective. This conversation invites parents to move beyond rigid rules and toward curiosity, helping them better understand what may be driving their child's behavior and respond with greater confidence and compassion. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 90: When Your Child Feels Like Too Much for You
05/29/2026
Ep. 90: When Your Child Feels Like Too Much for You
In this episode, Jill explores the deeply tender question many parents quietly carry: “Am I really cut out for this?” She unpacks a conversation with a client whose highly energetic, sensory-seeking son feels like the opposite of her own nervous system, and how that mismatch can leave parents feeling overwhelmed and unsure of themselves. This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating similar dynamics, reminding listeners that difference is not dysfunction, and that connection is built through understanding, not sameness. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 89: Struggling With the Kindergarten Transition: A Parent’s Honest Reflection
05/22/2026
Ep. 89: Struggling With the Kindergarten Transition: A Parent’s Honest Reflection
In this episode, Jill shares a personal reflection on her daughter’s upcoming transition into kindergarten and the complex emotions that come with it. She explores what it feels like to navigate modern public school systems as a parent today, including the shifting landscape of early education, the role of play, and the quiet tension many parents feel between excitement and grief during this milestone. It’s an honest conversation about what childhood looks like now and what we hope to preserve as our children grow. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 88: The Truth About Picky Eating with Jenny Friedman of @feedingpickyeaters
05/15/2026
Ep. 88: The Truth About Picky Eating with Jenny Friedman of @feedingpickyeaters
On today’s episode, Jill is joined by Jenny Friedman, a pediatric nutrition expert and mom of three boys to discuss a topic that so many parents struggle with: extreme picky eating and feeding challenges. They discuss how picky eating can be both normal developmental behavior and potentially indicate underlying issues. Jenny shares strategies Jenny emphasized the importance of parents trusting their instincts and seeking help when needed, while also sharing practical tips about managing snacks versus meals and the challenges of balancing work and parenting responsibilities. The conversation covers specific red flags to watch for in children and how to approach mealtime struggles with patience and perspective, and simple and effective strategies to help with picky eaters, emphasizing that parents are not alone in facing these challenges. Grab your free guide from Jenny: Three Steps to Eating Learn more about Jenny and her courses and resources Buy Jenny’s book Follow @FeedingPickyEaters on Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 87: More Play, Less Screen Time: A Realistic Approach for Families
05/08/2026
Ep. 87: More Play, Less Screen Time: A Realistic Approach for Families
In honor of Screen-Free Week, Jill breaks down how families gradually end up relying on screens more than they intended and why it can start to feel like the only thing that works. In this episode, she shares a realistic, non-shaming approach to reducing screen dependence by focusing on what matters most: creating more opportunities for play. Jill discusses how to evaluate screen time beyond just the number of minutes, why content and device type matter, how screens impact behavior and independent play, and where to start if you want to make changes without going “all or nothing.” Get your guide to low-stim shows Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 86: From Comparison to Connection: Parenting Siblings Who Are Very Different
05/01/2026
Ep. 86: From Comparison to Connection: Parenting Siblings Who Are Very Different
Parenting more than one child quickly shows just how different kids can be. In this episode, Jill explores what it looks like to raise children with different needs, routines, personalities, and play styles, and why it can feel so challenging. She shares from her own experience navigating these differences with her daughters, and unpacks our natural tendency to compare, why some dynamics feel easier than others, and how to shift toward deeper understanding and connection. You’ll walk away with a more grounded perspective and simple, practical ways to support each child as their own unique person while strengthening your relationship with them and with each other. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 85: The Habit That’s Quietly Destroying Independent Play
04/24/2026
Ep. 85: The Habit That’s Quietly Destroying Independent Play
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting, Jill explores a subtle but common habit that can unintentionally disrupt independent play. Through a client story and a look at how young children's natural play and movement patterns, she reframes what it really means when a child walks away from an activity. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the cyclical nature of play and how small shifts, like leaving materials out a little longer, can support longer, more connected independent play. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection.
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Ep. 84: It’s the Damn Phones: Why Moms Feel So Overwhelmed with Lynn Hazan Bush
04/17/2026
Ep. 84: It’s the Damn Phones: Why Moms Feel So Overwhelmed with Lynn Hazan Bush
In this episode, Jill sits down with Lynn Hazan Bush, a mom of three, former blogger, and certified health coach behind Shuva Wellness, a nervous system–informed coaching practice for overwhelmed mothers. They talk through maternal mental and physical health, along with simple, actionable ways to feel better, build supportive habits, and prioritize yourself without adding overwhelm to your life. It’s an honest, grounding conversation for any mom who wants to take better care of herself in a way that actually feels doable. Learn more about how to work with Lynn and Shuva Wellness . Follow Shuva Wellness on . Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection.
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Ep. 83: How to Evolve Your Play Space Without the Overwhelm
04/10/2026
Ep. 83: How to Evolve Your Play Space Without the Overwhelm
If your child’s play space suddenly feels like it’s not working anymore, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down why that happens as kids move from baby to toddler, what signs to look for, and how to make simple changes that can completely shift how your child plays. I’m also sharing a couple real client examples to show how small, intentional updates can make a big difference. Want to book your playroom revamp consultation? Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 82: After School Meltdowns: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs and How to Help
04/03/2026
Ep. 82: After School Meltdowns: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs and How to Help
In this episode, Jill shares how understanding your child’s sensory needs can transform afterschool play. She explores why some children struggle to regulate with traditional “calming” sensory activities, and how different nervous systems require different kinds of input. Drawing from her experience as a play expert and early childhood educator, and as a mom, she offers a new lens on afterschool meltdowns and what may actually be underneath them. Want a FREE list of afterschool play prompts? Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 81: From “Play With Me” to Playing Independently
03/27/2026
Ep. 81: From “Play With Me” to Playing Independently
In this episode, Jill shares a real client story of a 5-year-old who struggled with independent play and frequently sought screen time. She walks through her process of supporting the family, starting with an in-depth intake to understand the child’s interests, challenges, and goals. This episode offers practical insight into fostering independence through connection and intentional setup, rather than pressure or rigid expectations. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 80: Why Your Child’s Behavior Isn’t Misbehavior: Understanding Sensory Processing with OT Blanche Buchwald
03/20/2026
Ep. 80: Why Your Child’s Behavior Isn’t Misbehavior: Understanding Sensory Processing with OT Blanche Buchwald
In this episode, Jill sits down with Blanche Buchwald, a seasoned mom of 5(!!!) and occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience and founder of Wonderkids Therapy. Jill & Blanche discuss how children’s behavior is always a form of communication, how to better understand what a child’s behavior expressing, and how to distinguish between behavior and the sensory needs that may be behind them. They talk about sensory processing, what it actually means and what it looks like in everyday life. This conversation is full of practical guidance, reassurance, and those “aha” moments that help you see your child in a whole new way. Whether you’re feeling stuck, curious, or just want to better support your child, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what’s going on beneath the surface. You can learn more about Blanche and WonderKids Therapy . Follow Wonder Kids Therapy on Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 79: Why Your Child “Loses It” With You
03/13/2026
Ep. 79: Why Your Child “Loses It” With You
In this episode, Jill , inspired by a client story about a sudden morning meltdown, she explains how children often release big emotions in the places where they feel safest. Jill shares why kids “let it rip” at home, and how parents can approach these moments with curiosity instead of judgment. She also offers simple questions parents can ask themselves to uncover what might be happening underneath their child’s behavior. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 78: Mindful Play: Finding Presence in Everyday Parenting
03/06/2026
Ep. 78: Mindful Play: Finding Presence in Everyday Parenting
In today’s episode, Jill explores the connection between mindfulness and play, and why playful moments can be one of the easiest ways for parents to practice being present with their children. She explains how even short pockets of focused, child-led play can strengthen connection and support emotional regulation. Jill also shares simple, practical ways parents can bring more mindful moments into their everyday play. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 77: What Toy Clutter Is Actually Doing to Your Child’s Brain
02/27/2026
Ep. 77: What Toy Clutter Is Actually Doing to Your Child’s Brain
In this episode, Jill talks about how your child’s play environment impacts their focus, behavior, and creativity, and why more toys doesn’t always mean better play. She also walks through simple, practical strategies for toy rotation, designing a play space that actually supports your child’s play style. If you've ever wondered how to decide what to keep, store, or let go of so play can feel calmer, deeper, and more engaging, this episode is for you! Want to book your playroom revamp consultation? Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 76: The Beautiful Chaos of Going From One Child to Two
02/12/2026
Ep. 76: The Beautiful Chaos of Going From One Child to Two
In her first episode back since welcoming her second child, Jill returns to the mic with honesty and heart. She opens up about what the transition from one to two has really looked like, sharing both the tender moments and the challenges that don’t always get talked about. Jill also walks through the tools, mindset shifts, and small supports that have helped her feel more grounded in this new season. It’s a candid conversation for anyone navigating change, motherhood, or the messy beauty of doing both at once. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 75: A Look Back: Your Favorite Episodes of the Year
10/17/2025
Ep. 75: A Look Back: Your Favorite Episodes of the Year
Before taking a little break from the mic to welcome her new baby, Jill is looking back at your favorite episodes from the past year. From simple play ideas to deeper conversations about child development and connection, these highlights capture what makes this podcast such a supportive space for parents. Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or just recently joined, this episode is the perfect way to revisit or discover the ones that resonated most before Jill takes some time away from recording. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 74: Why Halloween Feels So Hard (and How to Make It Easier)
10/10/2025
Ep. 74: Why Halloween Feels So Hard (and How to Make It Easier)
You know those moments when something that’s supposed to be fun, like a holiday, birthday party, or family outing, suddenly unravels into tears, meltdowns, and overwhelm? In this episode, Jill dives into why that happens and how we can make special events like Halloween (or any day that’s out of routine) a little smoother for everyone. She shares practical, compassionate tips for setting expectations, reading your child’s cues, and finding ways to keep the joy without less chaos. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 73: How Play Helps Kids Work Through Big Emotions
10/03/2025
Ep. 73: How Play Helps Kids Work Through Big Emotions
In this episode of The Art of Playful Parenting Podcast, Jill dives into how play can become one of your most powerful parenting tools for helping young children navigate big feelings and how playful moments can support emotional expression, regulation, and connection. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 72: Navigating Life After the NICU with Jodi Klaristenfeld of Flrrish
09/26/2025
Ep. 72: Navigating Life After the NICU with Jodi Klaristenfeld of Flrrish
In honor of NICU Awareness Month, this powerful episode features Jodi Klaristenfeld, founder of Flrrish, a transformative resource and support hub created by a NICU mom for NICU parents. Jodi opens up about her own unexpected journey into motherhood and how it inspired her to build a community that helps preemie parents navigate life from hospital to home and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's walked the NICU path or loves someone who has. It's about confronting uncertainty, finding resilience, and discovering how to move forward and thrive in the face of the unexpected. Learn more about Jodi and Flrrish . Connect with Jodi on . Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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Ep. 71: Am I The Asshole Parenting Edition
09/19/2025
Ep. 71: Am I The Asshole Parenting Edition
On today’s episode, Jill dives into the chaotic world of parenting drama with a special “Am I the Asshole?” edition. She reads AITA posts and gives her unfiltered, unsolicited two cents. So who's right and who's wrong? Tune in and judge for yourself. Want to work with Jill privately? The Playful Parenting Membership is HERE! You’ll learn about foundational developmental concepts and age-appropriate play fundamentals , how to create simple, engaging, meaningful play experiences your child will WANT to explore, feel less burnt out and overwhelmed and feel more joy and connection. Ready to see more independent play? This totally free resource that will help you get more time back for yourself while your child is learning and playing independently.
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