Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas

Ruth Vercoe
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas

Kia ora, Hello! I’m Ruth Vercoe, a teacher-turned-mum, here on a mission to demystify Child’s Play through understanding play schemas.If you’ve ever found yourself asking, 'Why is my child doing that?'—whether it’s throwing their soft toys, hiding stones around the house, or lining up their crayons —then you’re in the right place, and certainly not alone. Here, we’ll explore the magic of play through the lens of play schemas—those hidden repeated patterns in your child’s behaviour that hold the key to unlocking more meaningful play and connection. Join me each week as we dive into playful insights that will help you bring more joy, connection and understanding into your parenting journey. Get in contact atEmail Ruth@Playschemas.comFacebook and Instagram @Play_Schemas

  1. 11 HRS AGO

    033 Getting Outside as a Family with Guest Adiva

    Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of getting your kids out the door for a walk or a play at the park? You’re not alone. But what if those muddy puddles, long car rides, and slow wanders were actually building blocks for your child’s development? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, I am joined by Adiva, founder of @LittleTrailsNZ and mum of four, to talk about the power of outdoor play — and how it supports strong family bonds. Whether your child loves throwing sticks, lining up shells, or digging in the dirt, they’re engaging in deep, meaningful learning. And the best part? You don’t need fancy gear or perfect weather to make it happen. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the journey (yes, even the car ride!) matters as much as the destinationHow following your child’s lead supports confidence and curiositySimple ways to prepare for mess, mud, and magicHow to start small and build up to bigger adventuresThe underestimated power of snacks and toilets (trust us!)This one’s for the parents who want to get outside more but aren’t sure where to start — or how to make it work with toddlers in tow. It’s real, relatable, and packed with practical tips. Listen now and get inspired to create small moments of wonder with your tamariki — no matter the season.  Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a comment letting us know your favourite outdoor activity! Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    15 min
  2. 032 Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Now & Play Freely With Your Kids | Guest Caren

    2 JULY

    032 Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Now & Play Freely With Your Kids | Guest Caren

    Is your pelvic floor holding you back from truly enjoying play with your kids?You’re not alone — and this episode is here to help. Whether it’s needing to cross your legs when you sneeze, quietly avoiding playing chase the backyard... not to even mention the fear of hearing 'Mum's turn' when it comes to the trampoline. Pelvic floor issues are incredibly common for mums after pregnancy and birth. But just because it’s common… doesn’t mean it has to be your new normal. In this empowering episode of Demystifying Child’s Play | Play Schemas, I sit down with Caren from Empowered Mums Fitness , a mum-safe certified trainer and expert in pelvic floor health, to talk about what no one tells you about your pelvic floor until it’s already affecting your daily life. And yes — we’re talking wee, farts, tampons, and blueberries. You’ll never forget how to engage your pelvic floor after hearing this! What We’re Chatting About: This episode goes beyond the basics of pelvic health and dives into how a strong, responsive pelvic floor can help you get back to doing what you love most — playing, laughing, running, dancing, and living fully with your kids. We cover: What actually is the pelvic floor? (And why it matters more than we realised)How pregnancy and birth affect your body, even if you had a C-sectionWhy so many mums think leaking is “just the way it is” (spoiler: it doesn’t have to be!)Easy tips to fit pelvic floor care into your busy life (hello, connection breath!)The “fart, tampon, wee” trick for full pelvic floor activation (yes, it’s as memorable as it sounds)That it’s never too late to start, whether your child is 1 or 31We know parenting little ones means you’re often folding laundry with one hand and wrangling a toddler with the other. That’s why this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and expert tips, all delivered in a down-to-earth, supportive tone that feels like chatting with a good mate over a cuppa. You deserve to play, run, dance, and laugh with your children — without fear of leaking, pain, or shame. Because today is a great day to play — and you shouldn’t have to plan it around the toilet.  Want to connect with Caren? www.empowermefitness.co.nz FB: @empowermefc Insta: @empoweredmumsfitness Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    27 min

  3. 25 JUNE

    031 “I Can’t Play With My Kids”: Why It Feels So Hard and What Actually Helps

    Ever feel like you should be playing with your child… but you just can’t bring yourself to do it? Maybe you’re exhausted. Maybe you feel silly or awkward. Maybe you’re not even sure how to play anymore. If this sounds familiar, you are so not alone. In fact, many loving, involved parents feel exactly the same. And in this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on why play can feel so hard and what can actually help. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, juggling part-time work, or doing it all, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling less guilty, more confident, and much better equipped to enjoy play (even just a little) with your child. Here’s what we’ll unpack in this episode: 10 very real reasons why play feels hard for parents: from lack of time and low energy, to different play styles, technology distractions, and emotional burnoutHow your own childhood experiences (or lack of playful ones) might be influencing the way you show up for your child nowThe power of understanding play schemas, those fascinating patterns of repetitive play (like spinning, throwing, lining up, and wrapping things up) that tell you what’s going on in your child’s brainSimple, guilt-free strategies that help you connect through play... without needing to be silly, imaginative, or high-energyHow play supports emotional intelligence, brain development, confidence, and deep parent-child bonds—even when it doesn’t look “educational”Listen in and let this episode remind you: You don’t have to do more or be more to be a good parent. Sometimes, all it takes is understanding why things feel hard—and seeing your child’s play through a new lens. Want more support and ideas? Visit www.playschemas.com for free resources, schema-aligned play ideas, and real-life parenting tips   Follow on Instagram: @play_schemas   Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly encouragement and fresh inspiration If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow the podcast, share it with a friend, or leave a review—it helps more parents discover the power of play without pressure. Because when we understand what play really is—we can stop feeling guilty and start feeling connected... and remember... today is a GREAT day to play! Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    15 min
  4. 030 Play, Not Pressure: How Everyday Play Builds Your Child’s Literacy Foundation with Alex Weehuizen

    18 JUNE

    030 Play, Not Pressure: How Everyday Play Builds Your Child’s Literacy Foundation with Alex Weehuizen

    Worried your toddler isn’t “school ready”? Feel like you should be doing flashcards, worksheets, or alphabet drills — but it just doesn’t sit right? This episode is your deep breath and warm reassurance. We’re busting the myth that early literacy needs to look like formal learning and showing you how play, movement, and everyday conversations are actually doing the heavy lifting. Join host Ruth Vercoe and special guest Alex, from First Five Years — a mum of twins, ECE expert, parenting coach, and holistic sleep consultant — as we unpack what early literacy really looks like for children aged 1 to 5. Spoiler alert: It’s not about teaching your toddler to read before school. It’s about understanding the powerful role that play, language, movement and connection have in laying the foundation for confident, capable readers later on. 🎙️ In this practical and uplifting episode, we dive into: Why early literacy is more than just reading & writing and why it develops slowly, layer by layerHow repetitive play (hello, play schemas!) supports deep learning and language developmentThe overlooked link between crawling, monkey bars, and learning to hold a pencilWhy you don’t need to spend money on fancy resources — your everyday routines are full of literacy goldWhat serve and return conversations are, and why they might be the most important thing you do todayHow singing silly songs, drawing squiggles, and reading the pictures (not just the words) all build literacySimple ways to use art, storytelling, and play to help your child become a confident communicatorThe number one tip we both swear by (and no, it’s not more screen time or early readers!)Here’s what you’ll walk away with:  ✔️ Clear guidance on what literacy really looks like in the early years  ✔️ Confidence in using everyday moments to support your child’s learning  ✔️ Encouragement to slow down and embrace the power of play  ✔️ A deeper understanding of how movement, art, and sound lay the groundwork for school success Your child is learning every day — not because you’re “teaching” them, but because you’re with them. Ready to reframe literacy and feel more empowered in your parenting? Tune in now and discover how to turn everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for learning and connection. Connect with Alex  Instagram: @first.five.years and firstfiveyears.co.nz Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    33 min

  5. 11 JUNE

    029 Why Play Builds Connection With Your Child

    Connecting with Your Child Through Play — Why It Matters More Than You Think Is your toddler constantly throwing toys, lining them up, or wrapping things in blankets and you’re not quite sure why? What if these repetitive behaviours are actually your child’s way of connecting with you? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we dive deep into a powerful parenting truth: connection doesn’t just happen through doing dishes and conversations — it happens through play.  As parents of young children, we all want to feel close to our kids. We want to support their development, encourage independence, and nurture emotional intelligence, but sometimes, that connection can feel out of reach, especially when your child seems more interested in throwing blocks than talking to you. That’s where understanding play schemas changes everything. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why play is not a distraction from connection — it is connection.What play schemas are and how they show up in your child’s everyday behaviour.How these natural play urges support cognitive, emotional, and social development.Why recognising your child’s schema can stop you from misreading their behaviour as “naughty” or “out of control”.Simple, effective ways to join your child’s play — even if you’re not a “playful” parent.How schema-informed play builds trust, reduces power struggles, and helps your child thrive.We know life with toddlers can be messy, loud, and full of surprises. It’s easy to feel like you’re just surviving the day, especially when your child insists on playing the same game over and over again. But what if that repetition is actually a window into their world? It’s not about doing more. It’s about noticing more and meeting your child where they are. Whether you’re new to the idea of play schemas or have heard the term before but aren’t quite sure how it applies, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to support your child in a deeper, more connected way. Explore the blog: playschemas.com/blog Follow along on Instagram: @play_schemas Join our newsletter for schema insights & freebies: playschemas.com Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    11 min

  6. 4 JUNE

    028 Unlock Your Child's Learning Through Play: Join 'The Play Schemas Collective' BETA

    Apply to Join the BETA Test Group – Spaces Are Limited! Applications close 26 June 2025. Only 5 spots available. For more information and to apply now, head to https://playschemas.com/beta Or flick me a DM on Instagram: @Play_Schemas Get FREE access during the BETA roundEnjoy a FREE first month once we officially launchBook a personalised 1:1 coaching session with a play schema specialist (that’s me!)Receive early access to schema-aligned video and printable resourcesJoin our exclusive affiliate programm.And just for applying — get a FREE schema-aligned printable you can use right away! Applications close 26 June 2025. Only 5 spots available. For more information and to apply now, head to  https://playschemas.com/beta Or flick me a DM on Instagram: @Play_Schemas Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    7 min

  7. 28 MAY

    027 Why I Still Say “Be Careful” Even Though I Love Risky Play

    Do you ever catch yourself saying, “Be careful!” — even when you’re trying to let your child take healthy risks? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we unpack one of the biggest tensions many parents face: wanting to support our children confidence and independence, while still keeping them safe. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how much risk is “too much” when your toddler is climbing high, jumping off furniture, or running full speed down a hill, this episode is for you. We’re diving into the world of risky play — what it is, why it’s developmentally important, and how it links to the play schemas that drive your child’s behaviour.  You’ll hear honest reflections from a fellow mum (that’s me!) who still says “be careful” sometimes — and why I’m okay with that. In This Episode, We’ll Explore: What risky play actually means — and why it’s vital for building resilience, body awareness, and confidenceThe difference between dangerous play and developmentally appropriate riskWhy the play schemas behind risky play matter (think trajectory, rotation, orientation…)How to respond with calm, connection, and trust instead of fear or controlSimple scripts you can use to coach your child through risk, like:  “Do your hands feel steady?” or “What’s your plan?”Whether your child is 1 or 5, understanding their drive for risky play through the lens of schemas can transform your parenting — helping you say “yes” more often, and feel good about it. You’ll also learn: The 10 most common play schemas and how they show up in risky playWhy letting your child test their limits doesn’t make you reckless — it makes you responsiveHow saying “be careful” with intention can still build connection and emotional literacyWays to support schema-led exploration safely at home, on the playground, and in natureBecause parenting is full of moments where we just want to keep them safe — but when we understand what’s driving their behaviour, we can support growth and confidence without shutting down their curiosity. So pop this episode on while you’re making a cuppa, folding the washing, or out for a walk with the pram — and let’s make sense of the messy, marvellous world of toddler play together. Press play and feel more confident supporting your child's exploration — even when it feels a little bit scary. Listen now and don’t forget to:  Subscribe to the podcast Leave a comment or review — it means the world Share this episode with another parent who’s navigating risk & playFor more schema-aligned tips and free printables, visit: https://playschemas.com Follow us on Instagram: @Play_Schemas And remember... today is a GREAT day to play! #PlaySchemas #RiskyPlay #ParentingPodcastNZ #ToddlerDevelopment #PositiveParentin Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    13 min
  8. 026 Why Imperfection Matters in Parenting - with Sophie Moskowitz

    21 MAY

    026 Why Imperfection Matters in Parenting - with Sophie Moskowitz

    Ever feel like you’re the only one dropping the ball as a parent? Spoiler alert: you’re not, you're not alone in feeling this... and this episode might just be the breath of fresh air you didn’t know you needed.  In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play | Play Schemas, we’re joined by Sophie Moskowitz from Imperfect Parents, who brings a powerful message every parent deserves to hear: you don’t have to be perfect to be enough. Together, we unpack the unspoken pressures of parenting in a world that often tells us we should “do it all” – and do it flawlessly. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing a “good enough” job, wrestled with guilt, or felt isolated in your struggles, this honest, hopeful conversation will remind you that you’re not alone. Sophie shares how her own parenting journey – filled with both heart and hardship – led her to create a community that celebrates the real, raw, and often messy experiences of raising kids. In this episode, we cover: The myth of the “perfect parent” and why it’s time to let it goHow unrealistic societal expectations are making parenting harder – especially for mumsThe emotional toll of comparison culture (and what to do instead)Practical mindset shifts to move from guilt to connectionThe magic of play – and how understanding your child’s play schemas can help you reconnect, even on tough daysWhy naming your struggles is the first step to finding freedom in themYou’ll come away with: Reassurance that you’re not failing – you’re simply humanTools to reframe your parenting expectations in a way that actually feels goodReal-life stories that make you nod, laugh, and maybe cry a littleEncouragement to embrace the imperfect, ordinary moments that truly matterA reminder that being “good enough” is not settling – it’s powerfulSophie’s down-to-earth, no-judgement approach will speak straight to your heart – whether you’re parenting a toddler through tantrums, juggling multiple roles, or simply wondering if everyone else is doing it better than you. This episode is a love letter to you, the parent showing up every day and doing your best – even when it doesn’t feel like enough. Tune in now and give yourself the same compassion you so easily offer your kids. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, or leave a review if this episode resonates – it helps us reach more amazing parents just like you. More for you: Read the blog for more parenting insights: playschemas.com/026 Join the email list for weekly play-based parenting tips: playschemas.com Connect with us on Instagram: @play_schemas Follow Sophie’s work: @imperfect_parents Send us a text Support the show If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review! I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message. Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas Ruth@PlaySchemas.com www.playschemas.com and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!

    23 min
See All (34)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Kia ora, Hello! I’m Ruth Vercoe, a teacher-turned-mum, here on a mission to demystify Child’s Play through understanding play schemas.If you’ve ever found yourself asking, 'Why is my child doing that?'—whether it’s throwing their soft toys, hiding stones around the house, or lining up their crayons —then you’re in the right place, and certainly not alone. Here, we’ll explore the magic of play through the lens of play schemas—those hidden repeated patterns in your child’s behaviour that hold the key to unlocking more meaningful play and connection. Join me each week as we dive into playful insights that will help you bring more joy, connection and understanding into your parenting journey. Get in contact atEmail Ruth@Playschemas.comFacebook and Instagram @Play_Schemas

Information

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign-in or sign-up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada