EPISODE · Apr 30, 2026 · 35 MIN
Why Play Works When Kids Won’t Listen with Dr. Kim Van Dusen
from Dear Dr. Tracy · host Cloud10
A long day, a bedtime standoff, and a split-second pivot into “spy crawl” mode becomes the doorway into a bigger truth: connection often returns the moment play enters the room. Dr. Tracy sits down with Dr. Kim Van Dusen (The Parentologist) to unpack why play isn’t just “being silly,” it’s a nervous system tool and a relational skill that lowers power struggles and rebuilds cooperation in real time.Dr. Kim explains how her approach combines play therapy, solution-focused therapy, and positive behavior supports to create more calm, more communication, and more connection, without swinging into harsh punishment or permissive chaos. They talk about why kids connect through play (not logic), how adults lose access to playfulness as they move into productivity mode, and why a playful shift can regulate both parent and child faster than threats, bribes, or lectures. The takeaway lands clearly: play doesn’t require more energy than you have, it often gives it back, and when safety and trust are present, play becomes one of the most effective ways to lead with limits while staying connected. 📎 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Order Dr. Kim's new book: Parenting Through Play HERE Find out more about Kim's work HERE 🔗 WANT TO GO DEEPER? Be Connected — 24/7 relationship support, including Dr. Tracy AI trained on Tracy's clinical work. Get real answers in the moment, even when your partner won't do the work with you. One spot left for a couples intensive with Dr. Tracy — a 2-day deep dive designed for couples who are stuck and not seeing results from weekly therapy. In-person or she travels to you. Read the book: You, Your Husband, and His Mother Not sure where to start? Find your relationship's negative cycle — free quiz here. Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here! Build better connection and feel close starting today. Join the 30 Days to Us Challenge 📲 FOLLOW DR. TRACY Subscribe to You Tube Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Why Play Works When Kids Won’t Listen with Dr. Kim Van Dusen
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