How Play Supports Emotional Regulation

Play is often talked about as helpful for emotional regulation, but many parents are left wondering what that actually means in everyday life.In this episode, Arbara explains what emotional regulation really is, why young children rely on adults to build these skills, and how play supports regulation through connection rather than correction. This episode is a calm, developmentally grounded reminder that regulation isn’t about being calm all the time — it’s about feeling safe enough to move through big emotions.This episode is especially supportive for caregivers of young children who feel unsure whether they’re “doing play right.”A written version of this episode is available on MsArbara.com.