The research is showing us that our kids are not okay. They are anxious, depressed, and worried. We have to do something, and my guest today has one solution that is actually very simple.

Play! More unstructured, unsupervised, rough and tumble play time. I have Rusty Keeler, Playscape Designer and Author, joining me on the Heartful Parent Podcast today to break down all things play, playscapes, and the importance of letting our kids just BE.

So. What is play? Why is it important? What happens when our kids don’t get enough play? How do we help our teens and tweens play?

With over 30 years of experience in the field, Rusty shares his wisdom on the power of independent play for fostering resilience and emotional well-being in children. A “free-range” childhood has many benefits, including combating ever present anxiety and depression that haunts our kids, tweens, and teens.

Rusty is sharing insights for parents who want to nurture happier, healthier kids. Rusty and I also explore how we can design inclusive, natural play spaces that benefit not just younger children but also older kids and teens. Listen, and share, to help reimagine play and give your child the tools they need to thrive in a fast-paced world.

Resources:

rustykeeler.com

Adventures in Risky Play by Rusty Keeler

Natural Playscapes by Rusty Keeler

Seasons of Play by Rusty Keeler

Rusty’s FREE Outdoor Loose Parts Guide

Rusty's Newsletter

Play Nature Podcast

Follow Rusty @rustykeelerdesigns Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn - @rustykeeler

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