Rethinking Risk: The Benefits of Risky Play for Your Child's Development with Dr. Mariana Brussoni

We’re wrapping up Season 1 of Parenting Ed-Ventures with an insightful conversation about a topic that many families face but few feel comfortable discussing openly: divorce and separation. In today’s episode, Lara sits down with Denis Sushkin, a Counselling Psychologist at the Calgary Counselling Centre with nearly two decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s most challenging moments.Denis shares his expert advice on navigating divorce when children are involved, offering practical strategies for approaching difficult conversations, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding how kids of different ages may react emotionally. He also discusses ways parents can provide stability for their children during and after separation, manage their own emotions while supporting their kids, and co-parent effectively, even when tensions run high.This conversation is a must-listen for any parent navigating the complexities of separation or supporting a loved one who is. Denis’ guidance and wealth of experience provide the tools families need to maintain healthy dynamics and foster resilience during times of change.Don’t miss this valuable episode to close out our first season of Parenting Ed-Ventures! ----- Learn more about the Calgary Counselling Centre: ⁠https://calgarycounselling.com/⁠ Learn more about Counselling Alberta: ⁠https://www.counsellingalberta.com/⁠ ----- Follow the Calgary Counselling Centre on Instagram: ⁠@yyccounselling⁠ Follow Counselling Alberta on Instagram: ⁠@counsellingalberta⁠ ----- Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Does bedtime feel like a nightly battle in your home? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, Lara sits down with Sammy Merritt, a Registered Psychologist certified in pediatric sleep and the founder of The Merritts of Sleep. Sammy’s expertise lies in providing evidence-based, attachment-focused, and mental health-conscious support for families working to overcome sleep challenges. As a mom of two, she knows the struggles parents face firsthand and brings practical, research-backed advice to the table. In this episode, Sammy explains why quality sleep is essential for school-aged children, highlighting its impact on emotional regulation, learning, and overall well-being. She shares actionable tips on establishing healthy bedtime routines, encouraging independent sleep skills, and navigating common issues like bedtime resistance, nightmares, and night terrors. With her guidance, you’ll learn how to create a calm and consistent sleep environment that benefits the entire family. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child wind down peacefully at night or wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day, this episode is for you. Learn more about Sammy's work: ⁠https://www.themerrittsofsleep.com/⁠ Follow ⁠@themerrittsofsleep⁠ on Instagram ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Anti-bullying week is just around the corner and this week we're joined--for the second time--by Lisa Dixon-Wells, the founder of Dare to Care, Canada’s leading anti-bullying organization. With over 30 years of experience in education and amateur sports, Lisa has dedicated her life to creating safe spaces for children, advocating for mental health, and developing prevention programs that make a difference. As Anti-Bullying Week approaches, Lisa shares her deep insights into bullying prevention, making this episode an essential listen for parents who want to support their children in today’s challenging social environment. In today’s episode, Lisa clarifies the difference between bullying and regular conflict and delves into the lasting effects bullying can have on both the victim and the bully. With Dare to Care’s programs at the forefront of early intervention, Lisa explains how critical it is to address these behaviours early-on and create a culture of respect and empathy. She also shares actionable strategies that parents and educators can use to identify, address, and prevent bullying, providing practical advice for fostering safer, more supportive environments at school and in sports. Join us as we explore Lisa’s powerful message and gain tools to support our children’s mental and emotional well-being. This conversation will leave you inspired to take part in the movement against bullying and equip you with the resources to make a meaningful impact. Interested in Dare to Care's programming for parents? Check out their ⁠⁠parent education portal⁠⁠, equipped with 3 modules and year-long access for just $12 CAD Learn more about the Dare to Care's programming: ⁠⁠https://www.daretocare.ca/⁠⁠ Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@daretocare2⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠@daretocaresports⁠⁠ on instagram ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Maura Armstrong, a passionate science educator and communicator with over fifteen years of experience in informal education. Maura, who currently serves as the Director of Education at the TELUS World of Science Edmonton, is deeply committed to making science accessible and engaging for everyone. Whether you're a parent, educator, or curious mind, Maura’s dedication to sparking curiosity in children and fostering a love for exploration is sure to resonate. In today’s episode, we explore why STEM education is so vital for kids’ development and how the TELUS World of Science’s unique approach—through interactive, experiential learning—sets them apart from traditional classroom settings. From science camps to immersive exhibits, Maura discusses the impact these programs have on building critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence in young minds. She also shares exciting updates on new programs and how families can get involved in nurturing their child’s interest in STEM. If you’re a parent eager to empower your child through engaging and fun STEM opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to discover how the TELUS World of Science Edmonton is making a difference in the lives of kids and families by helping children discover the world of science, technology, engineering, and math in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable. Learn more about the Telus World of Science STEM programming and camps: ⁠https://telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca/⁠ Follow ⁠@twosedm⁠ on instagram Follow ⁠@TWoSEdm⁠ on X ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

As parents, it’s natural to want to protect our children from harm—but could we be shielding them too much? Today, Lara sits down with Dr. Mariana Brussoni, a renowned researcher and advocate for outdoor, risky play in childhood. Dr. Brussoni is the Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership, a Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia, and an Investigator at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Her groundbreaking work explores the vital role that outdoor play, particularly play that involves an element of risk, has on children’s overall development. From fostering resilience and independence to supporting cognitive and emotional growth, risky play is a key ingredient in helping children develop into confident and capable adults. In today’s episode, we dive into the topic of risky play, breaking down what it is, why it's so essential, and how parents can find that delicate balance between safety and allowing their children the freedom to explore. Dr. Brussoni shares insights on how outdoor play not only strengthens physical abilities but also enhances problem-solving skills, risk assessment, and emotional regulation in kids. If you’ve ever hesitated to let your child climb a tree or explore beyond your sight, this episode will provide the reassurance and evidence you need to embrace outdoor adventures with confidence. Tune in to discover how a little risk can lead to big rewards in your child’s growth and development. You won’t want to miss this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Mariana Brussoni! Learn more about Dr. Brussoni's work:  https://www.outsideplay.org/ Follow @outsideplayubc on instagram ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Kayla Huszar, a Registered Social Worker and Expressive Art Therapist who understands the chaos, pressure, and emotional toll of modern motherhood. With years of experience supporting mothers through the challenges of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, unequal divisions of labour, and the non-stop demands of parenting, Kayla’s mission is to help women rediscover their identity beyond just being "mom." In this empowering episode, Kayla opens up about her journey into expressive art therapy and how it has become a unique tool to help mothers process their emotions, reconnect with themselves, and reduce feelings of overwhelm. We dive into the pressures moms face in today’s fast-paced, social media-driven world and discuss practical strategies to bring creativity and self-care into your daily life. Kayla also shares insights into the most common struggles she encounters in her practice and how expressive art therapy can offer an outlet for mothers to navigate guilt, self-doubt, and burnout. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve lost yourself in the role of motherhood or struggled with balancing your own needs with those of your family, this episode will resonate with you. Kayla’s wisdom, empathy, and actionable advice offer hope and guidance for mothers seeking to reclaim their identity and find joy amid the challenges of parenting. Stay tuned for this inspiring and heartfelt conversation—you won’t want to miss it! Follow Kayla on Instagram @kayla.huszar Learn more about Kayla's work: https://www.kaylahuszar.com/ ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

In today's episode of Parenting Ed-Ventures, Lara sits down with Dr. Sukhpreet Tamana, a registered psychologist, epidemiologist, and researcher who has made it her mission to empower families with science-based knowledge. Drawing on her extensive research with the CHILD Cohort Study at the University of Alberta, Dr. Tamana sheds light on the significant impact of screen time on young children's attention spans and behaviour. With increasing concerns around digital device use, she breaks down what these findings mean for parents and how they can navigate screen time to protect and promote their children's mental and physical health. During the conversation, Dr. Tamana discusses the brain's response to screen time, particularly in preschoolers, and why this age group is especially vulnerable. She also explores the delicate balance parents must strike to ensure their children get the benefits of technology without the drawbacks. From understanding the implications of inattention to finding out if there’s a safe amount of screen time, this episode offers practical advice and guidance. Whether you’re struggling to manage screen time at home or curious about how it might be affecting your little one's behaviour, Dr. Tamana's insights are invaluable. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert in the field—tune in! ------ Learn more about Dr. Tamana's study out of the UofA: https://childstudy.ca/screen-time-linked-to-behavioural-problems/ https://childstudy.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screens.pdf Follow Dr. Tamana on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sukhpreet-k-8926ab61 ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Dr. Simon Darnell, a dedicated social scientist whose work is at the intersection of sport, development, and social change. As an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto and the Director of the Centre for Sport Policy Studies, Dr. Darnell has spent years exploring how sports can be more than just a game—it can be a powerful tool for shaping identity, promoting peace, and fostering social activism. In this episode, Dr. Darnell sheds light on the role of sports in a child’s life, beyond the scores and trophies. He discusses how sports can be used to achieve broader goals, such as developing social skills, building confidence, and even driving social change. We explore the unique blend of sports and youth culture, how participation in sports can shape a child's identity, and the potential of sport for development initiatives to create lasting impacts on communities. Dr. Darnell’s insights are not just about the games our children play, but about the deeper connections between sports, personal growth, and societal progress. Stay tuned to discover how you can support your child’s development through sports in ways that extend far beyond the playing field. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Read more of Simon's Research here: ⁠https://rb.gy/2ld6jv⁠ Visit the Centre for Sport Policy Studies' Website: ⁠https://www.sportpolicystudies.ca/⁠ Follow The Centre for Sport Policy Studies on X: ⁠⁠⁠@UOFTCSPS⁠ ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Claire Kjeld, a dedicated Registered Dietitian whose career is devoted to guiding families through the complexities of feeding and nutrition challenges. With nearly two decades of experience spanning the United States and Canada, Claire brings a comprehensive understanding to her work in primary care, health and wellness, sports, and pediatric nutrition. Claire knows the deep concern parents feel when their children face eating difficulties. Whether due to medical conditions, special needs, selective eating, or food sensitivities, she understands the profound impact these issues can have on a child's relationships, academic performance, and overall well-being. In today’s episode, Claire delves into the distinct roles parents and children play in the journey to healthy eating and how to foster a healthy balance between these roles. She also emphasizes the importance of not pressuring children to try new foods and the power in being indifferent. Claire’s practice emphasizes the importance of building trusting relationships with her clients, ensuring personalized care that empowers families to make informed nutritional choices. Keep listening – you won’t want to miss a minute of this valuable discussion! Follow Claire on Instagram ⁠@yegfamilynutrition Learn more about Alberta Therapy Co. ⁠https://www.albertatherapyco.com/⁠⁠ ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠ Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Jessica Edwards, an experienced Occupational Therapist who has been making a significant impact in the field of sensory development. Jessica completed her Bachelor of Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia and moved to Edmonton for her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alberta. Jessica’s extensive career includes work in non-profit organizations, public health, private practice, and school boards. Now practicing out of the multidisciplinary Alberta Therapy Co., Jessica specializes in sensory and motor development, feeding and swallowing, visual-motor development, and addressing challenging behaviours. She’s passionate about creating individualized, play-based, and fun interventions that help children thrive. In today’s episode, we talk about the different types of sensory processing, key sensory milestones, and signs to look out for that might indicate sensory issues with your child. Jessica shares her insights on how to support your child's unique sensory needs and offers practical tips for parents to create a sensory-friendly environment at home. Stay tuned as we explore these important topics and give you insights to support your child's development. Follow Jessica on Instagram @jessica.edward.ot Learn more about Alberta Therapy Co. https://www.albertatherapyco.com/⁠ ------ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram ⁠@parentingedventurespod Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠ ------ Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.” Intro Music: “Bunny Swell” Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse