Episode #42: MP - The Importance of Play with Barb O'Neill

Synergy Autism Podcast

In this podcast, Barb O'Neill and I talk about the importance of play for connection in our lives, especially with young children and since this is an autism based podcast, especially young children with autism. I’ve invited Barb O’Neill here for this podcast. She is an expert in play and child development. I appreciate Barb’s approach in early childhood to really step up the play and engagement with children - especially those with challenging behaviors. Barb shared a little bit about her background and how she came to this passion of working with children and teachers. Barb and I talk about how play is possible for all children of all ages and how important play is for true connections with one another and also within ourselves. In the autism world, we often get hung up on skill development and we forget the importance of play. To add to that, people with autism tend to avoid uncertainty which means that they may avoid little kind-of playful moments. We as well meaning professionals and parents then avoid them too. So we stop playing. Barb shares a couple of pointers for how to engage that seemingly harder to engage child in play. Then she shares a few sneak peeks into the upcoming conference: April 28 - May 4th. Barb coordinates this amazing conference every year for early childhood teachers. You will not want to miss it! The conference is April 28-May 4th and If you’d like to sign up for this conference: https://barbavila.krtra.com/t/zGkbj7no2ECp I’ll also be doing a little daily discussion throughout the conference in my Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/SynergyAutismCenter Play and imagination are essential for learning how to connect with ourselves, our thoughts, our emotions, and with each other. It is an honor to have had Barb O’Neill join me for this podcast and for motivating us to find ways to play with the children in our lives. And here is your special link to register for the FREE conference! https://barbavila.krtra.com/t/zGkbj7no2ECp