The Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention
*** WINNER of the 2026 Lifestyle Podcast Award! ***
***Top 1.5% Parenting Podcast Worldwide***
Getting Kids to Listen | Speech Therapy | Child Communication | Parenting Strategies
Are you tired of repeating yourself, dealing with meltdowns, or wondering why your child still isn’t listening? Are you worried about speech delays, language development, behavior challenges, or communication struggles?
Welcome to The Language of Play podcast—where speech therapy meets real-life parenting.
I’m Dinalynn Rosenbush—mom, grandma, Speech-Language Pathologist, parent coach, and host of a top-ranked parenting podcast helping overwhelmed parents build calmer homes, stronger relationships, and better communication with their children.
This podcast helps parents understand behavior as communication so they can support listening, emotional regulation, speech, and connection in everyday life.
In each episode, you’ll learn practical, brain-based strategies to:
• Help kids listen without constant power struggles
• Support speech and language development naturally
• Reduce tantrums, whining, and communication frustration
• Build connection, emotional safety, and confidence
• Understand speech delays, language processing, and child behavior
• Use simple communication tools that work in everyday moments
These strategies support typically developing children, late talkers, dual-language learners, neurodivergent children, and kids with speech or language delays.
Each episode is filled with simple, playful tools you can start using right away—because communication growth happens best through connection, play, and everyday interaction.
If you’re longing for calmer parenting, deeper connection, more listening, and a home filled with confidence, curiosity, and communication, you’re in the right place.
So grab a cup of coffee, bring your real-life parenting questions, and come explore The Language of Play with me.
Contact: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/
Episodes

Feb 5, 2026
Feb 5, 2026
24 min
Hey Friends~
This week is Children’s Authors and Illustrators Week! And on TLOP, we’re celebrating an imaginative storyteller who helps kids grow brave, curious, and confident. So it felt like the perfect time to discuss: what shapes an author who writes stories that help children feel brave and confident?
In this episode, I talk with children’s author Rella B. about imagination, courage, and the heart behind stories that invite kids to embrace who they are. It’s a conversation about wonder, creativity, and why storytelling matters at every age.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
COMMENT? QUESTION? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
ABOUT THE GUEST: Rella B's transformation from a career-focused adult to a passionate advocate for the magic of childhood has resonated with countless families worldwide. Her belief that work and play should be inseparable companions has shaped her mission to provide young readers with captivating tales that not only entertain but also instill valuable life lessons. In the spirit of curiosity and courage, Rella B's journey reminds us all that there's no age limit on dreaming, exploring, and discovering the joy in everyday moments.
CONTACT THE GUEST: Info@rellabbooks.com
https://rellabbooks.com/
YouTube.com/@Rellabbooks
All Socials are @Rellabbooks
February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors for a month!
Constance Lewis: Emotions Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/
Jason Heffler: Children's speech disorders Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler
Terry Lilga: Rhyming Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/
Claire Miller: Storytelling with kids Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk
Highlighted Authors This Month:
226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings
214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience
218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words
243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection
MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE: Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!
2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)
Learn more:https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat
Use checkout code for your savings investment:PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket
PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026Listen to: 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
“Play is…” https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
TO REVIEW, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, DONATE, SPONSOR:
Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

Jan 29, 2026
Jan 29, 2026
32 min
Hey Friends~
Have you ever thought, “I understand my child just fine… so maybe their speech isn’t really a problem” ? Or wondered, “Maybe they’ll just grow out of their listening struggles as they grow,” but the waiting is really hard!
You’re not alone. And you’re not wrong for wondering!
Some of the most common beliefs—ones that make complete sense to caring parents—can quietly delay the support kids need for speech, listening, and learning. In this episode, we’re busting a few of those myths. Not with judgment. Just clear, compassionate, and practical insight you can use right away.
If you’ve ever wondered whether something really matters for your toddler, preschooler, or young elementary-age child, and asked yourself, “Is this just a phase they’ll grow out of?” Then, this episode is for you.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
COMMENT? QUESTION? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
“Play is…”
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
APPROVED RESOURCE AND OPPORTUNITY: Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!
2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)
Learn more from Jackie: https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat
Use checkout code for your savings investment: PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual TicketPLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026Listen to Jackie on The Language Of Play: 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!
IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL ENJOY THESE EPISODES:
189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills
204 A Simple Direction Made Your Child Burst Into Tears? Let’s Look At How The Brain Processed That!
245 Toys That Create Calm: Helping Toddlers With Transitions and Meltdowns During the Holidays
250 What I Have Learned After 250 Episodes!
TO REVIEW, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, DONATE, SPONSOR:
LOVE THIS PODCAST? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

Jan 22, 2026
Jan 22, 2026
12 min
Hey Friends~
This episode is about the journey of podcasting and coaching and what I have learned after 250 episodes.
I invite you to email “congratulations” to me to share in this milestone celebration. And, when you do, I will email you back with a fun pdf that will bring a smile to your face as well as offer support and encouragement.
I think you may be surprised and get a laugh along the way today!
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
2026 Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿 for a deeper family connection✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)
Learn more:https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat
Use checkout code for your savings investment:PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket
PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
YOU MAY WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:
204 A Simple Direction Made Your Child Burst Into Tears? Let’s Look At How The Brain Processed That!
205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!
223 Too Many Parenting Voices Talking? Critique the “7-7-7 Rule”
WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!
Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Jan 15, 2026
Jan 15, 2026
30 min
Hey Friends~
Today’s conversation is unusual for this podcast, but an important one. Over half of marriages end in divorce, and about 30% of those become high-conflict - deeply impacting children.
This week, I’m joined by Lisa Johnson, a high-conflict divorce coach, to unpack the often-misunderstood topic of coercive control. We talk about what it is, the red flags within relationships, how it shows up during divorce and custody battles.
We also explore Jennifers' Law. We discuss how it recognizes the many non-physical forms of abuse. Lisa shares how children are victims, used as weapons in adult conflict, along with ways parents can begin rebuilding secure bonds after trauma.
⚠️ Listener Advisory: This episode covers sensitive material and is intended for a mature audience. Parents should use discretion with younger listeners.
I still hope you TUNE IN! Because understanding coercive control could make a life-changing difference for you or someone you love.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
ABOUT THE GUEST: Lisa Johnson is the co-founder of Been There Got Out, a high conflict divorce strategist and certified domestic violence advocate who has successfully represented herself through scores of court appearances. Her case, published in the Connecticut Law Journal, is being used as legal precedent. Her live testimony helped pass Jennifers’ Law in Connecticut, the third state in America to expand its legal definition of domestic violence to include “coercive control.” She and her partner, Chris coach people in high-conflict relationships, divorce, custody battles, and co-parenting hell so they have the chance of the best outcome in family court and beyond. They also offer a weekly Legal Abuse Support Group for those dealing with narcissistic opponents in legal matters. Their book, "Been There Got Out: Toxic Relationships, High-Conflict Divorce, and How to Stay Sane Under Insane Circumstances'' was released in March 2023. Their first course, “How to Communicate with Your Ex Without Destroying Your Case or Losing Your Mind” is out now!
CONTACT THE GUEST:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/been_there_got_out/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeenThereGotOut
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeenThereGotOut
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@been_there_got_out
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/been-there-got-out/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeenThereGotOut
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Been_There_Got_Out/
Podcast: https://beentheregotout.buzzsprout.com/
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
IF THIS EPISODE WAS HELPFUL, HERE ARE RELATED TOPICS:
246 Dr. Marcus: Are you a soothing presence for your child?
226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings
188 Susanna Peace Lovell: Is Your True Self Enough? Lessons Learned In Parenting A Child With Autism
185 Anastasia Arauz Unraveling the Magic of Play Therapy in Child Development
Love this podcast? Leave a Review: https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
2026 Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿 for a deeper family connection✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)
Learn more:https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat
Use checkout code for your savings investment:PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket
PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026

Jan 8, 2026
Jan 8, 2026
23 min
Hey Friends~
What’s really happening when kids struggle in school?
“Trying harder” just doesn’t work! Many kids benefit from a multi-sensory approach to learn reading. It works because this actually matches how the young brain works.
If your child is bright but frustrated, resistant, or falling behind despite everyone’s best efforts, this episode with Dr. Emily Levy, will help you see those struggles through a new lens. You will come away with clarity, compassion, and hope that you can share with other parents and educators of young readers.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
Have a question? Topic you want addressed? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
ABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Emily Levy is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 22-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, summarizing, and executive functioning, along with the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, which helps students develop their fundamental decoding and spelling skills. Additionally, she is the author of Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math, a multi-sensory math program that helps students develop a stronger understanding of core math concepts.
Dr. Levy graduated from Brown University and received her Master's Degree in Special Education from Nova University in Florida.
CONTACT THE GUEST: www.eblcoaching.com
https://www.facebook.com/EBLCoaching
https://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emily-levy-79b1728/
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:
238 Dr. Bibi Pirayesh: How an Educational Therapist Helps Kids with Learning Differences Succeed
239 Marsha Familaro Enright: Montessori? Learn how A Curiosity-Led System Works!
231 Dr. Candace Holmes: NeuroFeedback: An ADHD Brain Re-Organized!
230 Daniela Feldhausen: Speech Sounds and Reading Are Linked. Fun Ways Parents and Educators Can Help
Love this podcast? Leave a Review here: https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
2026 Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿 for a deeper family connection✔ Meaningful conversations✔ Nature-based experiences✔ Build courage + confidence✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)
Learn more:https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat
Use checkout code for your savings investment:PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket
PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Valid thru Feb 28, 2026

Jan 1, 2026
Jan 1, 2026
31 min
Hey Friends~
The kitchen isn’t just about food. It’s about connection.
Some of the most meaningful conversations happen while hands are busy - pulling grapes off stems, chopping, stirring. That’s often when kids open up about friendships, worries, or their day. The kitchen becomes the heart of the home.
In this episode, Misa, helps families navigate the kitchen in a way that builds skills and relationships, especially when picky eating is part of the story! We talk about how to move beyond power struggles, how to invite kids into the kitchen without pressure, and how to grow communication, confidence, and nutrition together.
And even if picky eating isn’t your main concern, this conversation will help you see how the kitchen can become a place of connection for every member of your family.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
Have a question? Topic you want addressed? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
ABOUT THE GUEST: Misa is a Certified Health Coach, Culinary Nutritionist, and the founder of Misa’s Clean Kitchen. After navigating her own journey with a picky eater, who was diagnosed with Failure to Thrive, she became passionate about helping parents raise adventurous eaters without the mealtime battles. With 10 years of teaching experience, she shares practical tips, easy recipes, and real-life strategies to help you cook one meal the whole family will enjoy.
CONTACT THE GUEST: misascleankitchen4@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/misascleankitchen/
Website: https://www.misascleankitchen.com
Get the Taste-O-Meter here: https://misascleankitchen.myflodesk.com/tasteometer
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:
95 Do You Have A Picky Eater? Have a Holiday Plan! Join For A Success Story with Everyday Parent, Kristi!
115 - 3 Ways To Ensure Travel With Kids Is Enjoyable!
118 Diann Alexander: Does The Chaos Of Your Home Life Feel Like “A Theater Of Little People”?
122 Is Your Spouse Your Best Parenting Partner? Tips For Getting The Support You Need
Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com

Dec 25, 2025
Dec 25, 2025
43 min
Hey Friends~
Are you a soothing presence for your kids? According to today’s guest, a soothing presence is someone who is okay when you are not okay. Usually these are specific people. You can probably know who your person is. Who will be okay when you are not?
As parents we want to be a soothing presence for our children. Fortunately, it is simply a skill to learn. So, if you did not have that from your parents growing up, you can learn it now!
Our natural instincts are to want to make our kids feel better. When you learn to be a soothing presence, you allow your child to experience and express what is happening without you being triggered by it. Today’s guest beautifully explains how this happens in plain language.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
Have a Question or Comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
Book a ZOOM call to discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
ABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Marcus is a highly respected figure in Clinical Psychology known for his expertise in improving the lives of individuals and families. He specializes in families under stress. Dr. Marcus advises parents on how to provide a soothing, safe environment for their children and how parents can help children in developing an emotional language. Dr. Marcus is author of the forthcoming book “Parent Rx: Prescriptive Wisdom, Tips and Strategies for Communication with Your Child.
CONTACT THE GUEST: parentrx.org
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:
232 SERIES: Speech & Language Delays: What Parents Need to Know
244 SLP Gift Guide: The Top 10 Language-Building Toys for Toddlers And Preschoolers
245 Toys That Create Calm: Helping Toddlers With Transitions and Meltdowns During the Holidays
LOVE THIS PODCAST? Leave a Review! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE IN 1-CLICK! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Dec 18, 2025
Dec 18, 2025
25 min
Hey Friends~
The holidays can be exciting, but for many kids they are overwhelming. Travel, loud gatherings, new routines, and unfamiliar people can push children into meltdown mode, especially when language shuts down under stress. In this episode, we talk about how to use simple toys to prepare kids for upcoming changes, help them calm during holiday chaos, and create a sense of safety when words don’t work. If your child struggles with transitions or language delays, or is very young, this episode will help you understand why play communicates when language doesn’t, and how to use toys to bring calm, connection, and confidence during the holidays.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
Have a question? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
YOUR NEXT STEPS:
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
MORE EPISODES ON TOPICS LIKE THIS:
244 SLP Gift Guide: The Top 10 Language-Building Toys for Toddlers And Preschoolers
243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection
232 SERIES: Speech & Language Delays: What Parents Need to Know
227 Child Not Doing As Told? Change Their Response With Concept Words
Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Dec 11, 2025
Dec 11, 2025
44 min
Hey Friends~
If you’ve been leaning on screens to help your little one talk, you’re not alone. It often feels like the easiest option — and with all the advertising, it can even seem like the smartest choice when you’re worried. But real language grows through real play.
With Christmas coming up, I’m sharing ten toys and games that you can suggest to gift-giving friends and family - so you get gifts that provide powerful, communication-building opportunities. These ideas are fun, practical, and designed to work with how your child’s brain naturally learns. Your little one is wired for human connection. Speech and language grow best through back-and-forth interaction with you.
Those screens that promise to teach your child? They can’t hold a candle to the power of parent–child engagement. If you want to help your toddler say more, understand more, and connect more, this is a beautiful place to start.
And after listening, you’ll understand why your everyday interactions are more powerful than any app — which is incredibly empowering for you as a parent.
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
As mentioned: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91
Other NEXT STEPS:
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin
21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup
To discuss working together: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session
For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
Cindy Howard Lightening Admin VA cindy@lightningadminva.com
IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:
185 Anastasia Arauz Unraveling the Magic of Play Therapy in Child Development
104 How Does This Gift Develop Language? 4 Tips To Quickly Evaluate A Toy
243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection232 SERIES: Speech & Language Delays: What Parents Need to Know
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Dec 4, 2025
Dec 4, 2025
35 min
Hey Friends~
When your children start telling you stories, have you ever wondered how to keep that creativity going? How about when what they tell is outlandish, imaginative, and there is no logic at all, have you been concerned you should stop it? It’s easy to shut them down in our fast-paced analytical, task-oriented mind.
How do you engage your children in a way that expands their ideas and expression when you can’t really relate to WHAT they are saying but you want to relate to THEM!
Today’s guest does a fabulous job to demonstrate HOW she uses story creation with kids. She exemplifies how to be curious and validate your child’s creativity, even when your kids are a bit too silly for your liking. She gives us a format, an example, and a description, which gives you intention for letting your interaction build your child’s language, confidence, and connection.
If you have a child with big ideas or struggles with confidence or language, this episode is for you!
Always cheering you on!
Dinalynn
CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com
ABOUT THE GUEST: The Story Creator. I guide children and adults to gain self-confidence through playing with their imagination, creating stories with my published books, Story Creating Calendars and Story Creating workshops and having fun, with cuddly toys.
CONTACT THE GUEST: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk Get Free downloadable worksheets on her website!
Linkedin, Facebook and Instagram: search Claire Miller Story Creator
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
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Toothpillow.com use the promo code Language of Play to waive the online evaluation fee and get $200 off treatment! Full Episode about Jaw & Airway - listen to Episode 242.
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** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com
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Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play
Follow & subscribe in 1-click: https://followthepodcast.com/play
To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session
To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play








