The Power of Independent Play with Dr. Adriana Stacey (#143)

Today, Melanie and Dr. Adriana Stacey discuss a recent article in the Journal of Pediatrics on independent play and how it relates to children’s mental well-being. This episode is full of great recommendations, encouragement, and a ton of research on why allowing your children the autonomy of independent play will make them happier, healthier, and more well-rounded adults.

References & Links:

• Journal of Pediatrics article Dr. Stacey refers to throughout the episode: Decline in Independent Activity as a Cause of Decline in Children’s Mental Wellbeing: Summary of the Evidence
• Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Dr. Stuart Brown
• The Let Grow Project for Childhood Independence 
• Episode 38: Helping Your Children Avoid Screen Addiction with Tracy Markle

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Production Team:

• Host: Melanie Hempe
• Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin