Episode 7: Sacred Play Series pt 2 | The Playful Parent — Why your kids need you to be silly again
There’s a kind of healing that happens when a parent chooses to be ridiculous on purpose.This episode is for the tired, the serious, the “not naturally fun” grown-ups—because your kids don’t need perfection. They need you. And sometimes, they need…
There’s a kind of healing that happens when a parent chooses to be ridiculous on purpose.
This episode is for the tired, the serious, the “not naturally fun” grown-ups—because your kids don’t need perfection. They need you. And sometimes, they need you to be a little bit silly.
We’ll explore why play isn’t just fun—it’s foundational. Neurobiologically bonding. Spiritually formative. And deeply, deeply human. Rediscover the sacredness of joy and find simple ways to bring silliness back into your home.
from this episode:
“Kids don’t always remember what we said, but they remember how we played.”
“Silly is sacred. They don’t need a performance. They need your presence.”
Mentioned in the Episode:
Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play
→ “The opposite of play isn’t work. It’s depression.”
National Institute for Play
Dr. Karyn Purvis, author of The Connected Child
→ Known for her trauma-informed approach to connection and attachment through play
Empowered to Connect
Jesus’ Parables
→ Employed humor, surprise, exaggeration, and childlike observation: mustard seeds, lilies, birds, lost coins
See: Luke 15, Matthew 6:26–30, Mark 4:30–32
Scripture:
Matthew 6:26–30 — Consider the birds and the lilies
Matthew 18:3 — “Unless you become like little children…”
Luke 15 — Stories of the lost sheep, coin, and son
Mark 4:30–32 — The mustard seed parable
Resources:
Join the Insiders List
Get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, book recommendations, and spiritual practices that pair with each episode. Join Here
Explore Related Episodes:
- Episode 1: What Is Spiritual Formation and Why It Matters in Parenting
- Episode 5: When Kids Lie—What’s Really Going On and How to Respond with Wisdom
- Episode 6: Play Is Not a Distraction. It’s a Way of Seeing God.
Let’s Stay Connected:
- Instagram: @parentforwardpodcast
- Website: www.parentforward.com
Support the Podcast:
If this episode gave you permission to loosen up and laugh, would you consider:
✔️ Sharing it with a friend
✔️ Leaving a review on Apple Podcasts
✔️ Tagging us on Instagram
You never know who might need an invitation to play again.
