Dr Play

Episode Description

What happens when a research analyst with expertise in  paediatric immunology turns their attention to creating developmentally sensitive resources for families? In this conversation, Dr Kate sits down with Monica Jones from My Binkie Bear to explore how rigorous research translates into joyful, practical tools that support children through life's transitions.

Monica shares her unique journey from reviewing academic literature on child development to designing playful resources that invite caregiver involvement. We discuss what makes a resource truly 'evidence-based', why developmental sensitivity matters, and how seemingly simple tools can support c...

What if science could demonstrate that authentic connection between parent and child creates literal brain synchronization? In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Kate Renshaw welcomes Dr. Ezgi Kayhan Wagner founder of Mumbi, neuroscientist and clinical psychologist to explore the remarkable intersection of brain science and playful parenting.

Dr. Ezgi reveals groundbreaking insights about what happens in our brains when we sit down to play with our children, why stressed parents struggle to find creative solutions, and how the simplest, most "boring" play might actually be exactly what overwhelmed families need.

From the concept of the brain...

Dr Kate Renshaw 'aka' Dr Play in conversation with guest, Rachel Parker on the topic of the relationship between global citizenship and play.

Rachel Parker is the Founder of Global Play Lab and Voice of the Child Foundation Lead at Murdoch Children's Research Institute. Her experience includes:

20+ years in educational programming and researchInternational work with Lego Foundation, UNICEF, and the Australian Government

Episode Highlights

The Natural Global Citizen

Children naturally value animal life equally to human lifePossess inherent ethical qualities and global citizenship perspectivesTheir perspectives elevate adult understanding of interconnectedness<...

What if the most powerful therapeutic tool for children isn't found in any clinic, but right outside your door? In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of nature-based play therapy with insights from groundbreaking Australian research. From bush kindergartens to natural resources integrated into playrooms, discover how therapists are using everything from rock hopping to leaf collaging to help children heal and thrive.

Key Topics Covered:

The "spectrum of nature immersion": How to incorporate natural elements anywhere, from wilderness therapy to windowsill plantsWhy calculated risks matter: How tree...

Join us for a transformative conversation with Dr Kate Renshaw and Jenny Bowers about their groundbreaking collaboration that's reshaping how we support educators. What started as Wednesday afternoon Group Play Therapy sessions in a South Yorkshire school evolved into a powerful advocacy for educational supervision - something therapists have always had, but teachers desperately need.

Discover how creative, play-based approaches can unlock professional insights, why research shows teachers face higher burnout than ambulance workers and police, and how simple tools like sandtray miniatures and Play-Doh are revolutionizing professional support. Jenny shares her journey from deputy head to...

Dr. Kate Renshaw sits down with Natalie (Nat) Scira from Playroom Therapy to explore the future of play therapy in Australia. Fresh from their collaboration on NDIS advocacy work, they discuss the challenges facing a profession with varying training standards, and the opportunities that have emerged from the uncertainties.

Nat shares her journey from primary school teacher to play therapist, and we both reflect on how the NDIS review sparked crucial advocacy work - including a comprehensive literature review on play therapy's evidence base for children with disabilities. We explore the need for systemic approaches to children's...

The host of “Dr Play”, Dr. Kate Renshaw chats with fellow Play Therapist Caz Hynes

Episode highlights:

Personal Journey: Caz Hynes shares her path from psychology studies to nursing and finally to play therapy, describing it as coming "full circle" to where she always wanted to be professionally.Friendship Foundation: Dr. Kate Renshaw and Caz reflect on their decades-long friendship that began in university, where Kate helped Caz discover the importance of play and lightness in life.Professional Insights: Caz discusses how her nursing career revealed the profound impact of childhood experiences on adult physical and ment...

Episode highlights:

How small interactions can lead to significant community changeThe importance of mentorship and connection in both personal and professional settingsHow Operation Presidium emerged from simple conversations to address complex community issuesThe contrast between traditional community support systems and today's time-pressured realityHow play and simple acts of kindness can rebuild community connections

Join Dr Kate Renshaw soon on the Dr Play podcast