In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' the host converses with Jessica McLaughlin, a senior creative director with 20 years of experience in creating digital content for children. Jessica shares her accidental journey into children's media, her work at Find Your Fun Studios, and her new venture, Play Wise Labs. She discusses the intricacies of designing educational games, the importance of testing with children, the impact of interactive play, and the balance of creating engaging yet safe digital experiences for kids. Jessica also offers insights on helping parents navigate the vast world of kids' digital games.

Website: https://playwise.ca/

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In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa interviews Marguerite Hunter Blair, OBE, the Chief Executive of Play Scotland. Marguerite discusses her extensive career in advocating for children's play in Scotland and Northern Ireland, including her leadership in establishing the Scottish Play Commission, Scotland's Play Strategy, and the statutory duty for play in the Planning Scotland Act of 2019. She also speaks about her recent OBE award for services to play, learning, and health, emphasizing the importance of play for children's well-being and development. The conversation covers her journey from obtaining a master's in adult education to leading key play initiatives, as well as the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perception of play. The episode explores the various types of play, the essential role of parents, practitioners, and community spaces in fostering play, and the importance of play for children of all ages, including teenagers. Marguerite highlights the need for inclusive and accessible play spaces, especially in disadvantaged areas, and underscores the broader social and health benefits of promoting children's play.

Play Scotland - https://www.playscotland.org/

Play Northern Ireland - https://www.playboard.org/

Play Wales - https://play.wales/

Play England - https://www.playengland.org.uk/

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Podcast Episode Description:

This week on the podcast, I'm joined by Marshall Lyles, an expert in using sand tray therapy to support children, adults, and families. Marshall shares his insightful experience on how this powerful therapy helps individuals explore their early experiences and better understand their present situations. We ponder the importance of approaching sand tray therapy with curiosity and openness, encouraging people to examine the judgments and limitations placed on them by family, others or society. Marshall shares how sitting with the emotions that arise during these explorations can be therapeutic, allowing them to become more conscious and empowering for personal understanding. Don't miss this deep, reflective conversation on the transformative potential of sand tray therapy.

Website: https://www.marshalllyles.com/

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In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa and Julie dive into the critical role of play within school environments. They discuss the decline in playtime availability over the years across primary, secondary, and nursery schools. They explore how therapists can collaborate with schools to support children's learning and well-being through play. The conversation highlights how play helps children learn, manage transitions, and cope with anxiety, ultimately promoting their overall development. They also emphasise the importance of tailoring approaches to fit each child's individual needs.

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Podcast Description:
This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Colby Pearce, who shares his wealth of experience working with care-experienced families. Colby dives deep into the importance of attachment, emphasising that connection and consistency are the most crucial aspects. He also discusses the programs he's developed to support professionals in providing care that fosters resilience and aids in repairing the effects of early-life adversity. Listen to hear Colby’s valuable insights into supporting families and building stronger, more resilient communities.

web: securestart.com.au
blog: colbypearce.net

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSm5x0fmZ2BU8vp7xmG4aOumz7nMMVcsi

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In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, hosts Julie and Philippa explore how poverty affects children's ability to engage in play. They discuss the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the definition of poverty, and the statistics concerning child poverty in the UK. They highlight the various barriers that impoverished families face, such as limited access to resources, social exclusion, and the inability to reciprocate playdates. They also share personal anecdotes that demonstrate how children and families still manage to find moments of playfulness amidst adversity. The episode ends on a hopeful note, emphasising the importance of connection and the resilience of the human spirit.

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Welcome to this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy. Claire, a clinical service lead for CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), joins the podcast to discuss childhood mental health, CBT, and the different services that can be accessed through CAMHS. Claire also discusses the different types of services and interventions that are offered, including inpatient, clinic, and early intervention services.

In her role, Claire works within a multidisciplinary team that includes psychologists, social workers, drama therapists, and occupational therapists. They collaborate to support children and families facing mental health challenges. One of Claire's key areas of expertise is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where she works directly with individuals and supervises fellow clinicians.

CAMHS access can often feel like it's impossible to obtain a service, with its high pressure and complex cases. So, how did Claire end up in this demanding field? Join us as we ponder her journey, the challenges of working in CAMHS, and the unique ways she supports both children and her team.

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In this week’s episode, hosts Philippa and Julie ponder the playful traditions that shape who we are—past and present. From cherished family games like cribbage and Rummy to the joyful, sometimes complex dance of blending new traditions in modern families, they explore how play weaves connection, identity, and belonging across generations.

Through personal stories, thoughtful metaphors, and reflections on adolescence, the episode unpacks how play is more than fun—it’s foundational. It can unite or exclude, heal or divide, depending on how we hold it. Whether you're nurturing your family’s rituals or starting new ones, this episode invites you to reflect on how traditions can be both a bridge and a legacy.

🔗 Tune in for insights on play, tradition, and the gentle power of connection. Subscribe now and start your listening tradition today!

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