Become A Calm Mama
Become A Calm Mama
Darlynn Childress
Play as a Parenting Tool with Dr. Kim Van Dusen
48 minutes Posted Jun 11, 2026 at 7:30 am.
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Show notes

Today, I've invited The Parentologist, Dr. Kim Van Dusen, to teach us about how to make parenting easier using play.

Dr. Kim Van Dusen is a licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist, and parenting expert specializing in early childhood through adolescence. With more than two decades of experience as a clinician, educator, and public speaker, she works with families to support emotional regulation, positive behavior, and stronger parent–child relationships.

In her book, Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication, Dr. Kim walks parents through 3 evidence-based modalities: play therapy, solution-focused therapy, and positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS).

We're talking about ways you can bring more play into your life and how to and turn charged moments into connection.

Read the full show notes at www.calmmamacoaching.com/blog

You'll Learn:

  • Why play is such a powerful parenting tool
  • 4 common myths about play - and the truth behind them
  • The moment when Dr. Kim leaned into play with her kids and why it still stands out in her memory years later
  • How to fit “purposeful play pockets” into everyday life

Connect with Dr. Kim:


Free Resources:

Get your copy of the Stop Yelling Cheat Sheet!

In this free guide you’ll discover:

✨ A simple tool to stop yelling once you’ve started (This one thing will get you calm.)

✨ 40 things to do instead of yelling. (You only need to pick one!)

✨ Exactly why you yell. (And how to stop yourself from starting.)

✨A script to say to your kids when you yell. (So they don't follow you around!)

Download the Stop Yelling Cheat Sheet here

Connect With Darlynn: