# 144: When Play Feels Hard in the Age of Intensive Parenting with @mothercould

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/holding-space-559589/144-when-play-feels-hard-in-the-age-of-intensive-parenting-with-mothercould
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/holding-space-559589/144-when-play-feels-hard-in-the-age-of-intensive-parenting-with-mothercould.md
Podcast: [Holding Space](https://stenobird.com/podcast/holding-space-559589)
Published: 2025-05-12T13:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.drcassidymft.com/podcasts
Audio file: https://audio3.redcircle.com/episodes/5872612e-5ef0-4491-b749-f2c5a2c96cee/stream.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/holding-space-559589/episodes/144-when-play-feels-hard-in-the-age-of-intensive-parenting-with-mothercould
Duration seconds: 2396

## Resource

In this episode of Holding Space, I welcome parenting educator and content creator behind the account Mother Could, Myriam Sandler, for a real and refreshing conversation about play in parenthood. Together, we unpack the pressure many parents feel to “play the right way,” especially in today’s era of intensive parenting. Episode highlights: How perfectionism and productivity culture shape our expectations around play Why boredom matters—and how it supports creativity and independent play The role of accessibility in helping kids play independently What to do when your child wants to play with you—but you need space How to identify your own “play superpower” (even if it’s not getting on the floor) Practical tips for setting up multi-age play spaces at home Whether you love crafting sensory bins or prefer connecting through board games, 3D printing, or sports, this episode invites you to reclaim play in a way that honors your capacity and your child’s uniqueness. Resources Mentioned: Playful by Design by Myriam Sandler Follow Myriam on Instagram @mothercould Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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## Transcript

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