Play Therapy Parenting Podcast

Oct 17 2024 100 ep. 21 mins 48

Play Therapy Parenting Podcast artwork

The path to calm, confident, and in-control parenting starts now. The Play Therapy Parenting Podcast is hosted by Dr. Brenna Hicks, The Kid Counselor®. All content, no fluff.

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S2E27 - Power and Control: Handling Resistance to Reflecting Feelings and Limit-Setting

Oct 17 2024 16 mins

In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I respond to an email from Nicola, a parent struggling with her six-year-old son who resists reflective feelings and limit-setting techniques, often becoming aggressive. Nicola also has a younger son who responds well to these strategies, adding to her frustration. I explain why this behavior is a typical power and control stru

S2E26 - Empowering Your Child with Wholesome Stories: Interview with Britfield Author C.R. Stewart

Oct 01 2024 72 mins

In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I speak with C.R. Stewart, author of the Britfield series, about the power of wholesome literature in shaping children’s emotional and intellectual development. We discuss how value-based stories can nurture your child’s creativity, critical thinking, and sense of self-worth, while providing an alternative to the media and

S2E25 - Too Late to Start? Implementing Play Therapy Techniques with Older Kids

Aug 23 2024 17 mins

In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I answer a question from Amy, a mom of two from Florida, who is navigating the challenge of implementing child-centered play therapy principles with her 12 and 9-year-olds. Amy is concerned about whether it’s too late to start using these techniques with older children and asks about handling mean words, backtalk, and yelling

S2E24 - When Encouragement Backfires: Reflecting Feelings and Building Esteem in Sensitive Kids

Aug 12 2024 13 mins

In this episode, I address a question from Nell in Ireland about using encouragement and esteem-building techniques with a sensitive child who doesn't respond well in challenging moments. I discuss the importance of ensuring our tone of voice and facial expressions are congruent with the child's emotional state, especially when they're frustrated or struggling. I emphasize the valu

S2E23 - Solving Hygiene Battles with Choices

Aug 06 2024 13 mins

In this episode, I address a common parenting challenge: children's resistance to hygiene practices. I respond to a question from Rosemary in Florida, who's struggling with her 10-year-old daughter's refusal to use soap while showering and to wipe and flush after using the bathroom. I explain that this behavior is fundamentally a power and control issue. Children have control over

S2E22 - Play Therapy at Home: 30 Minutes to Transform Your Parenting

Jul 31 2024 14 mins

In this episode, I discuss the importance of implementing small play sessions with your children to practice the parenting skills we've been discussing. I explain why play is crucial for children's development and emotional processing, and how it provides a unique window into their world. I share practical advice on how to schedule 30-minute play sessions with each of your children

S2E21 - Presence: The Art of True Engagement with Your Child

Jul 26 2024 14 mins

In this episode, I discuss the importance of being present and engaged with our children. I share a heartwarming experience I had on a recent flight, where I observed a father fully engaged with his young son for the entire 2.5-hour journey. This interaction exemplified the essence of play therapy parenting - being attuned, present, and engaged. I offer practical tips for improving

S2E20 - Power, Control, and Potty Problems: Effective Strategies for Toileting Challenges

Jul 25 2024 18 mins

In this episode, I address a question from Emma in Ireland about her 4-year-old son's toileting issues. Despite being toilet trained for over a year, he frequently has accidents, especially during changes in routine or when other people are caring for him. I explain that this behavior is likely rooted in power and control issues, as children have control over very few aspects of th

S2E19 - Diffusing Power Struggles: A Play Therapy Approach to Parenting

Jul 02 2024 14 mins

In this episode, I discuss the topic of power struggles between parents and children. I explain why these struggles occur, provide a framework for handling them, and offer practical advice rooted in child-centered play therapy principles. I emphasize the importance of understanding the "why" behind power struggles. Children often seek control because they have little of it in their

S2E18 - Choices, Consequences, and Catching the Bus: A Play Therapy Approach to School Morning Power Struggles

Jun 27 2024 18 mins

In this episode, I address a question from Noel about managing morning routines and getting kids ready for school on time. As many parents can relate, the struggle to get children dressed, fed, and out the door for the bus is a common challenge. I share insights from a child-centered play therapy approach to make mornings easier and less stressful for everyone involved. I emphasize