CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 34

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On this episode of the podcast, I share a bit about my experiences growing up playing video games with my siblings, continuing to play as an adult, and now as a parent. Digital play is a part of our day to day lives - it has been acknowledged as a type of play. There are social skills you get a chance to practice when you play certain games, including working together, practicing conversations, and even executive functioning skills.

I discuss my thoughts on video games, as well as the importance of finding balance. You can play on a screen, but then you can also do other things together too as a family. To hear my thoughts, take a listen!

Apple Podcasts | Spotify

or Watch on YouTube

Resources:

Digital Play - Research Study

The Benefits of Playing with Video Games from the American Psychologial Association

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Nintendo Labo

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Supporting teen emotional regulation while staying connected: An interview with Ronnie Vehemente

Over the past decade, families have been feeling the pressure more than ever. From social media and constant screen time to the shared stress of the global pandemic and rising expectations for both parents and kids — it’s easy to feel disconnected and overwhelmed. In this episode, we explore how families can navigate these challenges, reduce stress, and build stronger, more connected relationships at home.

In this episode Ronnie and Janine discuss:

In this episode they discuss:

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Cooking as a Way to Connect: An Interview with Amy Nesbitt

Food is magic! Cooking together as a family has lots of benefits. As well as being a time to learn and teach such a key life skill. It presents an opportunity to share family recipes, whether they are cultural recipes or family recipes passed down through the generations is a beautiful moment for families to share together.

In this episode they discuss:

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Exploring and Understanding a Child’s Sensory Systems with Sarah Collins

We all know the 5 senses and learned them from the time we started school. But did you know there are actually 8? Unpacking and understanding these can help us to understand yours and your child's needs and how you move around your space well. Joining Janine is Occupational Therapist, Sarah Collins who unpacks the senses and encourages you to find the words and strategies that work for your child's sensory needs.

Today Sarah and Janine discuss:

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Helping kids understand how their brain works: An Interview with Dr. Crystal Collier

As parents, we are concerned that our kids and teens may engage in high risk behaviors as they grow up. How can we, as parents, encourage our children away from engaging in these high risk behaviors? Or, if they are already doing any of these behaviors, how can we encourage them to stop them?

In this episode Carrie and Janine discuss:

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Coping Skills Practice: Processing

Exploring different coping strategies helps us expand our child’s toolkit of strategies that work. But sometimes, it’s a challenge to get kids to try new skills. In this summer series, Janine tries to make it easier by walking you through six different strategies which she invites you to try with your child. Practice each one a few times to see if it’s a strategy that your child likes, and if they want to add it into their coping skills toolkit.

In today’s episode…

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Coping Skills Practice: Movement

Exploring different coping strategies helps us expand our child’s toolkit of strategies that work. But sometimes, it’s a challenge to get kids to try new skills. In this summer series, Janine tries to make it easier by walking you through six different strategies which she invites you to try with your child. Practice each one a few times to see if it’s a strategy that your child likes, and if they want to add it into their coping skills toolkit.

In today’s episode…

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Coping Skills Practice: Sensory

Exploring different coping strategies helps us expand our child’s toolkit of strategies that work. But sometimes, it’s a challenge to get kids to try new skills. In this summer series, Janine tries to make it easier by walking you through six different strategies which she invites you to try with your child. Practice each one a few times to see if it’s a strategy that your child likes, and if they want to add it into their coping skills toolkit.

In today’s episode…

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Coping Skills Practice: Distraction

Exploring different coping strategies helps us expand our child’s toolkit of strategies that work. But sometimes, it’s a challenge to get kids to try new skills. In this summer series, Janine tries to make it easier by walking you through six different strategies which she invites you to try with your child. Practice each one a few times to see if it’s a strategy that your child likes, and if they want to add it into their coping skills toolkit.

In today’s episode…

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Coping Skills Practice: Relaxation

Exploring different coping strategies helps us expand our child’s toolkit of strategies that work. But sometimes, it’s a challenge to get kids to try new skills. In this summer series, Janine tries to make it easier by walking you through six different strategies which she invites you to try with your child. Practice each one a few times to see if it’s a strategy that your child likes, and if they want to add it into their coping skills toolkit.

In today’s episode…

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Can Video Games Help Families Connect?

CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 34

Can Video Games Help Families Connect?

Apple Podcasts | Spotify

or Watch on YouTube

Resources:

Overcooked 2

Nintendo Labo

Mario Party