Play2Learn Podcast

In this episode, we explore practical strategies for managing picky eating in children, understanding typical behaviors, and when to seek professional help. Susan Scott, a speech language pathologist, shares insights on creating positive mealtime routines and fostering a healthy relationship with food. K ey topics Typical vs. concerning feeding behaviors Developmental stages of picky eating Strate...

Juggling motherhood, weather, and confidence with Kate Thornton Kate Thornton, an Emmy-winning meteorologist for News Channel 9 in Syracuse, joins the conversation to talk about life as a working mom of three daughters. This episode covers helping daughters navigate body image and social pressure, and teaching children not to fear thunderstorms by understanding the science behind them. We discuss...

In this episode, trauma therapist Jennifer Ashley discusses how unresolved childhood trauma can influence parenting. The conversation covers recognizing triggers, breaking generational patterns, and repairing ruptures to foster healthier family dynamics. Key topics- Impact of childhood trauma on parenting Recognizing triggers and emotional reactions Breaking generational patterns in family behavio...

Better Sleep, Happier Families : Sleep Expert Provides Tips for Babies, Toddlers, and School-Age Kids  In this episode, Kelly talks with certified pediatric sleep specialist, Erin Boswell about the biggest sleep challenges families face, from bedtime battles and night wakings to naps, transitions out of the crib, and travel sleep. Erin shares practical, parent-friendly strategies for building bett...

This episode offers practical tips for parents navigating the back-to-school transition, emphasizing routines, independence, and emotional support to make the process smoother for children and caregivers. Key topics Preparing children for school transition Building routines and independence Supporting children's emotional well-being Practical tips for parents during back-to-school Creating ex...

In this short solo episode, Kelly Vincentini shares practical strategies and creative ideas to make summer enjoyable and enriching for kids while reminding parents they don't have to play the role of camp counselor. Hear how her family balances structured activities with unstructured free play to fosters independence, creativity, and healthy development. Key Topics: Establishing simple daily...

Heartfelt insights on motherhood, community building, and self-care from Allie Perkins-Lee, founder of Cuse Mom’s Club.  This episode offers tangible tips for navigating motherhood with little ones and building meaningful connections for moms in Central New York.  Main Topics Covered: The origin story of Cuse Mom’s Club and the importance of community for new moms How moms can look to Cuse Mom’s C...

 Navigating Youth Sports: Mental Health, Growth, and Parent Strategies with Sports Psychologist, Bridget Quinn Insightful episode for parents, coaches, and athletes on fostering healthy athletic experiences. In this episode, Bridget, a sports psychology professional with firsthand athletic and coaching experience, shares wisdom on building confidence, handling disappointment, avoiding burnout, and...

This episode dives deep into the crucial conversations parents and caregivers need to have with children about safety, body boundaries, online conduct, and recognizing danger signals. Featuring expert insights from McMahon Ryan, it offers actionable advice and resources to equip families in protecting their kids effectively.                                                           Key Topics: Tea...

Safety Starts Early: Crucial Conversations to Empower and Protect Your Children  This episode dives into essential safety conversations for children, covering topics from stranger danger and body safety to creating family safety plans, online safety and recognizing unsafe situations. Perfect for parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers, it offers practical tips and scripts to empower childr...

Keywords cleaning, organization, mental clarity, parenting tips, decluttering, family routines, cleaning hacks, laundry management, home organization, self-care Summary In this conversation, Kelly Vincentini speaks with Jen Dixon, founder of Clean Slate CNY, about the transformative power of cleaning and organization in achieving mental clarity and calm. They discuss practical strategies for declu...

Summary  In this conversation, Barb Shepard, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in ANXIETY, OCD, and PANS/PANDAS, discusses the challenges parents face when their children have health anxiety or fears about sickness and/or vomiting. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing when anxiety or OCD is influencing these questions and suggests strategies for addressing them effectively....

In this conversation, Kelly speaks with Jessica Butler, a licensed clinical social worker and certified child center play therapist, about the increasing anxiety in children and how families can navigate these challenges . They discuss the common causes and symptoms of anxiety, when to seek professional help, effective communication strategies for parents, therapeutic approaches used in child ther...

Cultivating Calm: Kids Yoga & Mindfulness Strategies with Trista Phillipson In this episode, we explore effective relaxation and mindfulness techniques designed for children, guided by yoga instructor Trista Phillipson. Discover practical tools that caregivers and educators can implement to help children navigate stress, overstimulation, and emotional challenges in a busy world. Little Yogis b...

This episode feels like a warm hug for all mothers. Tracy and Kelly are deeply honest and vulnerable as they discuss the early days of motherhood as well as the challenges that come with each new age/phase.  Takeaways: Motherhood often comes with unexpected challenges and emotions. It's important to share feelings of anxiety and vulnerability with others. Self-care is essential for mental hea...

This episode addresses so many of your questions regarding healthy physical development during the early childhood years.  As a pediatric OT, Sara explains the WHY and the HOW behind supporting your child's growth at home. -Why Child led Play is CRUCIAL for Sensory & Motor Development -Benefits of Outdoor Play and Ideas for Backyard Fun -Ideas for Indoor Motor and Sensory Play -Best Gift...

In this episode, Kelly interviews Sarah Salisbury, a seasoned nanny with nearly 20 years of experience. They discuss the importance of play in child development, daily routines for children, engaging activities for early learning, and the differences between nannies and babysitters. Sarah shares insights on various nanny models, responsibilities, legal aspects of hiring a nanny, and tips for findi...

In this conversation, Kelly speaks with Laura Vincent, licensed speech language pathologist, about the special education process for children under five. They discuss the importance of early intervention, how parents can navigate the evaluation process, and the types of services available. Laura emphasizes the need for parents to trust their instincts and seek help when they have concerns about th...

In this episode, Kelly interviews Rita Ho-Bezzola, the founder of Gooshi, a storytelling platform aimed at helping families navigate emotional challenges through literature. They discuss the importance of using books as tools for emotional development, the role of technology in parenting, and the significance of representation in children's literature. Rita shares insights on how Gooshi can b...

September is almost here and my family is starting to to feel the ultimate case of Sunday night blues.  As a teacher and mom myself, I've figured out there are certain routines and rhythms that help with the back to school transition.  In this short solo episode Ive outlined strategies to help YOU & YOUR CHILD for the changes that lie ahead in these next few weeks.  September is coming li...

On this episode, Kelly Vincentini speaks with Maggie McGarvie, a speech-language pathologist, about the importance of promoting language development in children, particularly during the early years. They discuss practical strategies for parents to engage with their babies and toddlers, emphasizing the significance of connection, narration, and minimizing distractions from technology. Maggie shares...

In this episode, Kelly speaks with Alicia Suskin, a doula and breastfeeding specialist, about her journey and the vital role of doulas in supporting families during labor and postpartum. They discuss personal birth experiences, the importance of emotional and physical support, and the misconceptions surrounding the role of doulas compared to midwives. Alicia emphasizes the need for trust and rappo...

In this engaging conversation, Kelly and Francesca Thomson explore the themes of motherhood, vulnerability, and community. They discuss the importance of authenticity in social media, the challenges of building connections as mothers, and the significance of embracing the journey of motherhood. Francesca shares her personal journey of career shifts after having kids and emphasizes the need for sup...

In this episode, Kelly & Alex speak with Barb Shepard, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in pediatric OCD and anxiety. They discuss the nature of anxiety, particularly in children, and how it manifests in various situations. Barb shares insights on recognizing clinical anxiety versus typical childhood worries, strategies for parents to manage anxiety at home, and the importance o...

In this conversation, Kelly Vincentini and Laura Vincent discuss common behavioral challenges faced by parents with young children, particularly focusing on the ages of one to four and a half. They explore strategies for managing transitions, the importance of understanding typical versus concerning behaviors, and the role of the child's environment in influencing behavior. Laura emphasizes t...