Rediscovering Childhood: Playing Pretend with Jeff and Andy Crocker

Send us Fan MailRemember when your imagination had no limits? When a cardboard box became a spaceship and a backyard was an unexplored jungle? As we grow up, that magical part of our brain often takes a backseat to our logical, organized prefrontal cortex—but what if reconnecting with play could make us better parents and happier people?In this fascinating conversation, we're joined by Jeff and Andy Crocker (known professionally as Mr. and Mischief), experts in immersive theater experiences who help adults rediscover their capacity for imagination. Through their award-winning interactive performances like the Apple Avenue Detective Agency, they create safe spaces for grown-ups to step back into childlike wonder without the pressure to "perform."The couple shares their philosophy that "just because something is pretend doesn't mean it's not important"—a powerful approach they apply to both their artistic work and parenting their eight-year-old daughter. We explore how traditional education often diminishes creativity, why boredom can be the birthplace of imagination, and practical ways parents can nurture creative thinking without controlling it.Beyond just fun and games, we discover how pretend play helps children process complex emotions and experiences, from everyday frustrations to profound loss. The Crockers reveal their innovative approach to parenting that balances honesty with wonder, allowing their daughter to choose which tooth fairy tradition their family would follow after studying mythology together.Whether you're seeking to strengthen your connection with your children or simply want to recapture some of the joy and creativity that adult responsibilities have pushed aside, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on why playing pretend matters at every age. Discover how embracing your imagination can transform not just how you parent, but how you experience the world around you.