Episode 38 – MJ Pearson – Parenting with Play: Building Connection, Compassion & Joy with Your Kids

Episode Summary

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman welcomes MJ Pearson, a playful parenting expert and registered play therapist. They discuss the challenges of motherhood, the importance of connection over control in parenting, and the need for self-compassion. MJ shares her insights on navigating parenting pressures, understanding children’s emotions, and the significance of play in building strong family relationships. The conversation emphasizes the journey of parenting, the unique needs of each child, and the importance of being present and supportive as parents. In this conversation, the speakers explore the dynamics of parenting, focusing on the concepts of connection and protection modes. They discuss how parents can better understand their children’s emotional responses and the importance of creating a safe environment for connection. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of self-awareness in parenting, the challenges of managing sensory overload, and the need for playful interactions to foster joy and connection with children.

Key Takeaways

• Parenting is a beautiful mess that requires authenticity.
• Connection and understanding are key in parenting.
• Every child deserves to feel safe and supported.
• Self-compassion is crucial for parents.
• Parents often experience analysis paralysis due to overwhelming information.
• It’s important to prioritize and focus on one area of development at a time.
• Children’s behavior communicates their needs and emotions.
• Parents should be aware of their own emotional regulation.
• The relationship between parent and child is built on co-regulation.
• Compassionate parenting helps children develop a positive self-image. Parents often operate in either connection mode or protection mode.
• Felt safety is crucial for children to be in connection mode.
• Children may perceive threats even in safe environments due to sensory processing differences.
• The way parents communicate can significantly impact a child’s emotional state.
• Self-awareness in parents is essential for effective emotional regulation.
• Sensory overload can lead to emotional outbursts in children.
• Micro breaks can help parents manage their own stress levels.
• Playfulness in parenting can enhance connection and reduce stress.
• It’s important to recognize and address one’s own emotional triggers as a parent.
• Connection and joy can be fostered through humor and playful interactions.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Mommasota

02:58 Meet MJ Pearson: The Playful Parenting Expert

06:39 The Pressure of Parenting

12:10 Navigating Parenting Challenges

18:38 Compassionate Parenting: Understanding Emotions

26:31 Balancing Connection and Control

28:25 Connection vs. Protection Mode

39:47 Navigating Everyday Parenting Challenges

50:31 Embracing Playfulness in Parenting