#1267 - How Burnt Out Parents Can Still Build Connection

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

“I Don’t Like Playing with My Kids” – Why Play Still Matters

If the idea of playing Barbies or dragons makes you groan… you’re not alone.

In this episode, Justin and Kylie tackle a parenting confession that many are afraid to admit: “I don’t like playing with my kids.” Drawing from emotional intelligence research and real-life experience, they unpack why play matters (even if it’s not your favourite), how to make it meaningful and manageable, and why it’s one of the simplest ways to build connection, confidence, and emotional regulation in your child.

KEY POINTS

• Play is not a luxury—it’s essential.
  Play builds emotional intelligence, connection, and social skills better than almost anything else.
• It’s not about doing it ‘right’.
  Play works best when it’s spontaneous, simple, and mutually enjoyable—not when it’s forced or scripted.
• The emotional impact is profound.
  Play regulates emotions, reduces tension, strengthens relationships, and helps kids feel seen, heard, and valued.
• The secret is in the interaction.
  What makes play powerful is the back-and-forth: the jokes, the giggles, the shared creativity—not the activity itself.
• A little goes a long way.
  Just 5–10 minutes of intentional play can fill your child’s emotional cup and help them play independently afterwards.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Play is not about perfection—it’s about connection and presence.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Happy Families Membership – parenting tools & webinars
• happyfamilies.com.au – resources for raising emotionally intelligent kids
• Ethan Kross, Shift

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Find a 5–10 minute window each day
   You don’t need hours. Commit to short, fully present bursts of play—no phones, no multitasking.
2. Gamify the mundane
   Turn routines into playful challenges: “Can you hop to the bathroom on one foot?” or “Let’s race to tidy up.”
3. Let your child lead
   Ask: “How could we make this more fun?” Give them a sense of autonomy and watch their creativity bloom.
4. Prioritise connection over performance
   You’re not there to entertain—you’re there to engage. Drop the pressure, enjoy the moment.
5. Repeat. Consistency is the win.
   Over time, this builds emotional strength, stronger relationships, and memories that last.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.