Best Ruth Vercoe Podcasts (2025)

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053 Water Play + Play Schemas: 10 Ways Kids Learn Through Splashing, Pouring & Play 28:22

Play Pause

4d ago28:22

28:22

Why is your toddler obsessed with pouring, tipping, splashing, and carrying cups of water around the house? In this episode, Shelly from HapiTap and I dive into the world of water play through the lens of play schemas, so you can finally understand what your child is learning every time they head straight for the tap, bath, or puddle. If you’ve eve…

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052 A Playful Christmas: Understanding Your Child’s Play for Calm, Joyful Holidays 9:50

11d ago9:50

9:50

Is your toddler more interested in the box than the toy this Christmas? You’re not alone, and there’s a reason behind it! In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we’re kicking off our festive three-part miniseries, A Playful Christmas, exploring how understanding play schemas can bring more calm, confidence, and connection into your holiday s…

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051 Nourishing Nutrition for Mums: Preconception to Postpartum with Hannah Eriksen 26:56

18d ago26:56

26:56

How can mums nourish themselves through conception, pregnancy, and beyond? NZ dietitian Hannah Ericksen from oh Goodness Nutrition joins Ruth Vercoe to unpack nutrition for mums , the real, practical kind. From the “first thousand days” to postpartum recovery, discover how small changes can make a lifelong impact for you and your baby. You’ll learn…

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050 Create a Connected, Calm, and Joy-Filled Christmas with Your Child 20:56

25d ago20:56

20:56

What Your Child Really Wants for Christmas (It’s Not What’s Under the Tree) This week on Demystifying Child’s Play, Ruth Vercoe is joined by Linda from The Thriving Home and The Connection Couple to explore what truly makes Christmas magical... connection. If you’ve ever felt torn between creating a picture-perfect holiday and actually being presen…

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049 Connect Before You Correct: Parenting Neurodiverse Kids with Compassion 33:54

1M ago33:54

33:54

Ever wondered how to truly connect with your neurodiverse child, especially when life feels like one long guessing game? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, host Ruth Vercoe welcomes Sarah from We Are Equal — a mum of four, early childhood teacher, and passionate advocate for neurodiversity, to share the five powerful lessons she wishes s…

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048 Dinovember, Dinosaurs & Play Schemas: Turning Toddler Chaos into Connection 10:36

1M ago10:36

10:36

Discover the Magic of Dino-vember, and the Hidden Learning in Your Child’s Play! What if your child’s love of dinosaurs could actually help you understand why they play the way they do? In this fun and insightful episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, Ruth Vercoe dives into Dino-vember, that magical month where toy dinosaurs mysteriously come alive …

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047 Why Knowing Your “Normal” Could Save Your Life 17:50

2M ago17:50

17:50

What if prioritising your own health could be the most important thing you ever do for your children? In this powerful and deeply honest conversation on Demystifying Child’s Play, Ruth Vercoe talks with Tamara Milne, a radiographer and mum who was just 33 and weeks away from welcoming her second baby when she received a life-changing diagnosis: bre…

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046 How Play Builds Language: The Secret Link Every Parent Should Know 23:45

2M ago23:45

23:45

Did you know your toddler’s everyday play is secretly building the foundations for language and communication? If you’ve ever worried about whether your child is talking “enough,” or wondered how you can best support their speech and confidence, this episode will give you the reassurance and practical strategies you’ve been searching for. As parent…

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045 Everyday Moments Matter: Turning Daily Routines Into Language-Rich Opportunities 22:09

2M ago22:09

22:09

How does play shape your child’s speech and language? If you’ve ever wondered whether those endless games of peek-a-boo, block towers, or toy tea parties actually do anything for your child’s speech development, you’re not alone. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play | Play Schemas, we’re unpacking the fascinating connection between play and…

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044 From Mess to Meaning: Baking and Child Development with Play Schemas 11:41

2M ago11:41

11:41

Ever felt like baking with your toddler is more mess than magic? You’re not alone. But what if I told you that the flour on the floor and the endless stirring are actually signs of learning in action? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, I share the 10 main play schemas and how they show up while baking gingerbread with your little one. Fr…

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043 Baking with Kids Made Easy: Create Memories, Not Stress 15:54

2M ago15:54

15:54

Ever thought about baking with your toddler but stopped yourself because of the mess, the chaos, or the fear it’ll all go wrong? You’re not alone. Many parents love the idea of baking with their kids but find the reality overwhelming. Flour on the floor, sticky fingers everywhere, and a kitchen that looks like a tornado hit... sound familiar? Bakin…

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042 Five things I wish I knew about Birth and Postpartum with Jade from Your Mama Journey 24:08

3M ago24:08

24:08

Feeling overwhelmed after birth? You’re not alone. In this week’s episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, I’m joined by Jade from Your Mama Journey. A mum, an accredited mental health social worker, and the creator of beautiful guided journals designed to help women reflect on their birth and postpartum journeys. Like many of us, Jade expected her bi…

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041 Do Twins Really Need to Share Everything? 5 Insights for Twin Parents 22:55

3M ago22:55

22:55

Parenting twins is a beautiful gift but, it can also feel overwhelming. From double nappies to double tantrums, everything feels doubled. And when it comes to sharing, many parents wonder: Should twins always share? What if they’re constantly fighting over the same toy? How do I teach fairness without endless meltdowns? In this episode of Demystify…

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040 5 Messy Play Tips Every Parent Needs with Sam from Messy Mates 14:20

3M ago14:20

14:20

Messy play can feel like chaos… but what if it’s actually one of the best things you can do for your child’s learning, confidence, and connection? In this episode, I sit down with Sam, founder of Messy Mates, to talk about the hidden magic of messy play and how parents can make it easier (and less stressful!) to bring into everyday life. What we co…

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039 New Baby, New Balance: How to Care for Yourself While Caring for Your Baby 22:28

3M ago22:28

22:28

Bringing a new baby into the world is magical, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between sleepless nights, adjusting to life as a bigger family, and trying to find time for yourself, it’s easy for mums to feel stretched thin. That’s why this week, I’m joined by Ally from @EntwinedParenting, who shares her 5 top tips for welcoming a newborn into th…

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038 Welcoming a New Baby? Help Your Toddler Adjust with Less Stress & More Connection 10:54

4M ago10:54

10:54

If you’re a parent of a toddler or preschooler and you’ve got a newborn on the way, you already know it’s about to be a season of big feelings, big changes, and a whole lot less sleep. Between preparing the cot, stocking up on nappies, and navigating your own emotions, it’s easy to wonder: How will my little one cope when the baby arrives? In this …

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037 Sibling Conflict & Play Schemas: A Guide for Parents of Toddlers 8:39

4M ago8:39

8:39

Is your home filled with cries of “Muuuum, he took my toy!” or “She wrecked it again!”? If so, you’re definitely not alone and you’re absolutely in the right place. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play Through Play Schemas, we’re diving deep into a topic every parent of more than one young child knows all too well: sibling conflict. But ins…

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036 You Can Always Make More Memories, But You Can’t Make More Time 8:41

4M ago8:41

8:41

If you’re a parent of toddlers or preschoolers, you’ll know that feeling all too well—time seems to slip through your fingers. One moment your baby is crawling, the next they’re racing across the playground with fearless determination. The days feel long, but the years pass quickly, and it can leave us wondering: Am I making the most of this time w…

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035 Throwback Episode: The Magic Behind Repetitive Play | Episode 002 20:06

4M ago20:06

20:06

“Why is my toddler always dropping things, spinning, or hiding under the table?” If you’ve ever found yourself asking this (or wondering if it’s normal)... this episode is for you. Hi, I’m Ruth from The Play Schemas Collective, and I help parents make sense of their child’s play, so you can stop second-guessing and start enjoying the magic of toddl…

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034 Why Is My Toddler Always Throwing Things? Understanding the Trajectory Schema 8:50

5M ago8:50

8:50

Ever wondered why your toddler throws their food, launches toys off the couch, or can’t stop running back and forth? It’s not just chaos - it’s science in action. In this episode, I’m giving you exclusive access to one of the most-loved modules from The Play Schemas Collective - all about trajectory play. You’ll learn to spot the everyday signs tha…

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033 Getting Outside as a Family with Guest Adiva 15:01

5M ago15:01

15:01

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of getting your kids out the door for a walk or a play at the park? You’re not alone. But what if those muddy puddles, long car rides, and slow wanders were actually building blocks for your child’s development? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, I am joined by Adiva, founder of @LittleTrailsNZ and mum of …

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032 Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Now & Play Freely With Your Kids | Guest Caren 27:22

5M ago27:22

27:22

Is your pelvic floor holding you back from truly enjoying play with your kids?You’re not alone — and this episode is here to help. Whether it’s needing to cross your legs when you sneeze, quietly avoiding playing chase the backyard... not to even mention the fear of hearing 'Mum's turn' when it comes to the trampoline. Pelvic floor issues are incre…

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031 “I Can’t Play With My Kids”: Why It Feels So Hard and What Actually Helps 15:09

5M ago15:09

15:09

Ever feel like you should be playing with your child… but you just can’t bring yourself to do it? Maybe you’re exhausted. Maybe you feel silly or awkward. Maybe you’re not even sure how to play anymore. If this sounds familiar, you are so not alone. In fact, many loving, involved parents feel exactly the same. And in this episode, we’re pulling bac…

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030 Play, Not Pressure: How Everyday Play Builds Your Child’s Literacy Foundation with Alex Weehuizen 33:01

6M ago33:01

33:01

Worried your toddler isn’t “school ready”? Feel like you should be doing flashcards, worksheets, or alphabet drills — but it just doesn’t sit right? This episode is your deep breath and warm reassurance. We’re busting the myth that early literacy needs to look like formal learning and showing you how play, movement, and everyday conversations are a…

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029 Why Play Builds Connection With Your Child 11:45

6M ago11:45

11:45

Connecting with Your Child Through Play — Why It Matters More Than You Think Is your toddler constantly throwing toys, lining them up, or wrapping things in blankets and you’re not quite sure why? What if these repetitive behaviours are actually your child’s way of connecting with you? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we dive deep into…

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028 Unlock Your Child's Learning Through Play: Join 'The Play Schemas Collective' BETA 7:32

6M ago7:32

7:32

Apply to Join the BETA Test Group – Spaces Are Limited! Applications close 26 June 2025. Only 5 spots available. For more information and to apply now, head to https://playschemas.com/beta Or flick me a DM on Instagram: @Play_Schemas Get FREE access during the BETA round Enjoy a FREE first month once we officially launch Book a personalised 1:1 coa…

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027 Why I Still Say “Be Careful” Even Though I Love Risky Play 13:50

6M ago13:50

13:50

Do you ever catch yourself saying, “Be careful!” — even when you’re trying to let your child take healthy risks? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we unpack one of the biggest tensions many parents face: wanting to support our children confidence and independence, while still keeping them…

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026 Why Imperfection Matters in Parenting - with Sophie Moskowitz 23:36

6M ago23:36

23:36

Ever feel like you’re the only one dropping the ball as a parent? Spoiler alert: you’re not, you're not alone in feeling this... and this episode might just be the breath of fresh air you didn’t know you needed. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play | Play Schemas, we’re joined by Sophie Moskowitz from Imperfect Parents, who brings a powerfu…

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025 Parenting Hacks: Master ‘When’ & ‘Then’ Magic! 9:03

7M ago9:03

9:03

The Two Words That Will Transform Your Parenting — “When” and “Then” Are you tired of endless toddler negotiations, meltdowns during transitions, or repeating yourself a hundred times a day? You’re not alone — and there is a gentle, effective way forward. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, Ruth Vercoe introduces two simple, yet powerful …

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024 Part 1 - Self Care through the Schemas with Hannah Sadlier 17:37

7M ago17:37

17:37

Part 1 of 2 In this episode, we’re flipping the script on self-care. Instead of waiting for naptime or feeling guilty for needing a break, we’re inviting you to see the magic already happening in your everyday parenting life — through play schemas. Parenting young children can be exhausting, joyful, overwhelming, and deeply meaningful — often all i…

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024 Part 2 - Self Care through the Schemas with Hannah Sadlier 19:40

7M ago19:40

19:40

Part 2 of 2 In this episode, we’re flipping the script on self-care. Instead of waiting for naptime or feeling guilty for needing a break, we’re inviting you to see the magic already happening in your everyday parenting life — through play schemas. Parenting young children can be exhausting, joyful, overwhelming, and deeply meaningful — often all i…

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023 Why Your Toddler Isn’t Listening — And What to Do About It with Heather Schalk 35:22

7M ago35:22

35:22

Ever feel like your toddler is just ignoring you on purpose? You’ve asked nicely (three times), tried raising your voice, or even taken a toy away — and still, they won’t listen. Before you start second-guessing yourself or wondering if it’s just your child, take a deep breath. You are not alone — and there’s a powerful reason behind this common to…

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022 Growing Curiosity: How Gardening Supports Play Schemas & Child Development 21:41

7M ago21:41

21:41

What if your toddler’s obsession with mud, watering cans, or hauling carrots isn’t just play—but a window into how they learn best? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we take you into the garden—yes, dirt and all—to uncover how vegetable gardening can reveal powerful insights about your child’s development. Whether your little one is dig…

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021 Easter Play Ideas for Toddlers that Support Play Schemas 13:59

8M ago13:59

13:59

Free download available! Grab your free Easter Play Ideas PDF with all 10 schema-based activities, family-friendly versions, and our go-to oaty pancake recipe at playschemas.com/free Feeling overwhelmed by all the Easter hype—and wondering how to make it meaningful for your toddler? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we’re diving into ho…

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020 Keeping Kids Safe: Practical Tips for Parents with Victoria Barendsen 28:48

8M ago28:48

28:48

Looking for the discount code? use playschemas10 at the checkout! ww.thesafekidsproject.com As parents, we want to protect our children. But when it comes to body safety, it can feel overwhelming—where do we start? How do we talk about it in a way that’s age-appropriate and empowering? And how do we navigate such an important conversation without f…

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019 Understanding Play Schemas & Love Languages in Parenting 11:27

8M ago11:27

11:27

Wrapping Up the Love Languages Series: How Play Can Deepen Your Connection with Your Child Do you ever wonder what’s really behind your child’s play? Or why they behave a certain way when they’re feeling disconnected? Understanding play schemas and love languages can completely transform the way you interact with your little one—making parenting mo…

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018 Acts of Service = Love in Action! 13:32

8M ago13:32

13:32

Unlock the Secrets of Your Child’s Play: Play Schemas & Acts of Service in Parenting! Have you ever wondered why your child insists on lining up their toys, spinning in circles, or moving objects from place to place? It might seem random (or even frustrating!), but these repetitive behaviours are actually part of their natural learning process. The…

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017 Loving your child through gifts and play 15:40

9M ago15:40

15:40

Send us a text If you’ve ever wished you had a group of parents who just get it — welcome to The Play Schemas Collective. It’s where you can ask questions without judgement, share those little wins only another parent would understand, and dive deeper into your child’s play with people who speak your language. Join us at playschemas.com/collective …

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016 Make Memories: Play & Quality Time Tips! 18:48

9M ago18:48

18:48

Ever feel like your child is constantly throwing, spinning, or building the same thing over and over—and you’re not quite sure why? Or maybe you’re wondering how to give your child the quality time they crave without adding more to your already packed schedule? You’re not alone! In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we’re unlocking the magi…

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015 Why Your Words Matter: Affirmation in Play 14:56

9M ago14:56

14:56

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of child play through the lens of play schemas and the powerful impact of words of affirmation. Understanding why children engage in particular play patterns allows us to connect with them on a deeper level and support their growth more effectively. These schemas are not simply repetitive behavio…

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014 Play Schemas & The Love Language of Physical Touch | Understanding Your Child’s Needs 22:28

9M ago22:28

22:28

🎁 WIN A FREE BOOK! Love The 5 Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman? I’m giving away a FREE copy to one lucky listener! ✅ How to enter: Join my mailing list before March 31, 2025, at 👉 playschemas.com Did you know that something as simple as a hug, a high-five, or a game of tag could be the key to your child feeling deeply loved and secure? In…

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013 Play Schemas and Love Languages - a Match Made in Heaven 14:31

9M ago14:31

14:31

LOVE to a Child is Spelt TIME: Understanding the 5 Love Languages of Children 💡 Want a chance to win ‘The 5 Love Languages of Children’ book? Join my mailing list at playschemas.com—you’ll be in the draw to win, no matter where in the world you are! 💛 Do you ever wonder if your child truly feels loved? You tell them “I love you” a hundred times a d…

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012 Engage your little helpers at home through Play! 14:27

10M ago14:27

14:27

Play Schemas at Home: Turning Play Into Productivity How to Encourage Your Child to Help Around the House—Through Play! FREE list of play and helping around the home ideas - head to playschemas.com/free! Does it feel like you’re constantly cleaning up after your little one while they seem more interested in making a mess? What if, instead of workin…

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011 Playing Together – How Adults Can Join the Fun Without Taking Over 11:08

10M ago11:08

11:08

Playing Together – How to Join the Fun Without Taking Over Have you ever found yourself ‘playing’ with your child, only to realise that you’re the one in charge? One moment you’re happily stacking blocks, and the next, you’re directing the entire build like an overzealous project manager. Sound familiar? You’re not alone! In this episode of Demysti…

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010 Play Schemas and Siblings – How to Make Schemas Work for (Not Against!) You 13:24

10M ago13:24

13:24

🎙️ Play Schemas and Siblings – How to Make Schemas Work for (Not Against!) You! 👧👦 Do your kids constantly clash over toys, fight over space, or seem to have completely different play styles? You’re not alone! Sibling play can be tricky—one child wants to build, while the other wants to knock things down. One loves to throw, while the other careful…

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009 The Power of Independent Play – Nurturing Confident and Creative Kids 14:51

10M ago14:51

14:51

Episode 9: The Power of Independent Play – Nurturing Confident and Creative Kids Do you dream of guilt-free moments to enjoy a hot drink while it’s still hot—without hearing a desperate “Muuum!” every two minutes? What if those moments didn’t just give you a breather but also helped your child grow into a confident, creative problem solver? In this…

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008 Kickstart 2025 with Play: Unlock Joyful Parenting Through Play Schemas! 15:15

11M ago15:15

15:15

Ready to make 2025 the best year yet for your family? Dive into this exciting episode of Demystifying Child’s Play as we explore how understanding and embracing play schemas can transform your parenting journey. Whether you’re a returning listener or new to the podcast, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to help you connect…

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007 Christmas Play Schemas: Tips & Scenarios 14:26

12M ago14:26

14:26

Is your child tossing baubles, spinning ornaments, or carrying presents across the room? Before you wonder if they’re being “naughty,” take a deep breath—they’re not being difficult; they’re being explorers! In this episode, we’ll decode these behaviours through the lens of play schemas, helping you see the magic in your child’s play this Christmas…

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006 Experience the magic of nature with Play Schemas 18:49

12M ago18:49

18:49

Unlock the Secret to Your Child’s Play: Why Nature Play and Play Schemas Matter! 🌱 Ever wondered why your toddler spends hours collecting sticks, throwing pebbles, or carefully lining up leaves? What if these seemingly random behaviours were actually the building blocks of their development? In this episode of Demystifying Child's Play, we explore …

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005 The Origins of Play Schemas 10:51

12M ago10:51

10:51

Unlock the Secrets Behind Your Child’s Play: The Origins of Play Schemas Ever wondered why your little one loves to spin wheels, drop toys, or line up blocks over and over again? Those seemingly simple actions aren’t just random—they’re part of something much bigger: play schemas. In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we’re diving deep into…