The Way of Play

By: Carly Andrews

What if engaging in play with our children could strengthen their well-being build their social and emotional agility, and help them take on challenges with confidence? In their new book, The Way of Play, Tina Payne Bryson, PhD, and Georgie Wisen-Vincent, LMFT, offer a compelling guide to how adults can do just that.

In a recent Family Action Network (FAN) conversation, I spoke with both authors about the power of parents, caregivers, and teachers stepping into children's play—using moments of "mutual delight" to connect through what Wisen-Vincent calls children’s first developmental language.

Meet the Authors

Tina Payne Bryson is the author of many books that have shaped my own parenting journey, including The Whole-Brain Child, No-Drama Discipline, The Bottom Line for Baby, The Power of Showing Up, and The Yes Brain. Her work, grounded in a neurodevelopmental lens, translates scientific research into practical strategies for parents and caregivers.

Georgie Wisen-Vincent is a nationally recognized expert in play therapy, and co-founder, alongside Bryson, of The Play Strong Institute. Her work draws from research in childhood play, attachment science, and mental health, and guides her work with children, families, and professionals.

Key Takeaways from Our Conversation

Our discussion explored the essential role of play in childhood—and adulthood. Here are a few key insights from the conversation:

  • Play is a signal of safety. Play cues our nervous system that all is well. It’s the first developmental language of children, and it’s important for the well-being of adults, too.

  • One-on-one play strengthens emotional awareness. When parents and caregivers are attuned to children’s play, they can observe, join in, and add meaning. This strengthens relationships and fosters the social and emotional development of children.

  • Small moments make a big impact. Just 10 to 15 minutes of attuned, dedicated play daily can make a profound difference in a child’s emotional well-being and brain development.

  • Play is for everyone—even if you don’t know where to start. Many adults feel unsure about how to engage in play, especially if it doesn’t come naturally. The Way of Play offers a roadmap for entering play in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

At a time when national data shows rising levels of anxiety in children and adolescents—and increasing stress on parents—Bryson and Wisen-Vincent provide a much-needed guide to reconnecting through play. Their book reminds us that when adults enter a child’s world of play, we are speaking their "secret language", and unlocking cognitive, emotional, and relational benefits that last a lifetime.

📖 The Way of Play is available wherever books are sold.
▶️ Watch my FAN conversation with Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent [link to recording].

I’d love to hear your thoughts: Have you found ways to bring more play into your life? Reach out and share your thoughts. Let’s keep the conversation going!

Carly Andrews