<p>In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennaca Cotton, a Professor of Education and Literary Specialist, for a deep dive into play-based parenting. We talk about the importance of play in early childhood, why academics shouldn’t be pushed too soon , and how parents can take the pressure off themselves when it comes to their child’s development. Dr. Cotton shares practical tips on how to encourage independent play, why reading to your child is absolutely essential, and her honest take on screen time. Plus, the best toys that help support development! </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Takeaway / Points:</strong></p><ul><li><p>How play positively impacts your child’s development, cognitive learning, and growth</p></li><li><p>The power of independent play and letting your child explore and entertain themselves</p></li><li><p>Advice for parents on how to transition from play time to serious</p></li><li><p>How to ready your kid for kindergarten</p></li><li><p>The truth about battery-operated toys</p></li></ul><p><em>This episode is brought to you by </em><a href="https://lovevery.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><em>Lovevery</em></a><em>, an early childhood company that makes play more fun, and parenting easier. If you are a new customer, use code CAM10 to save 10% off your entire order through May 31, 2026.</em></p><p><br></p><p>Order Quiet Your Mind &amp; Busy Your Hands <a href="https://quiet-your-mind.com/collections/journal" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">HERE</a></p><p>Check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theworkspaceforchildren/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@workspaceforchildren</a></p><p><br></p><p>Follow Dr. Jennaca Cotton:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drjennacacotton/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@drjennacacotton</a></p><p>Substack: <a href="https://jennacacotton.substack.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Learning &amp; Life</a></p><p>Website: <a href="http://drjennacacotton.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">drjennacacotton.com</a></p><p><br></p><p>Follow me:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cameronoaksrogers/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@cameronoaksrogers</a></p><p>Substack: <a href="https://cameronoaksrogers.substack.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Fill Your Cup</a></p><p>Website: <a href="http://cameronoaksrogers.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">cameronoaksrogers.com</a></p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@cameronoaksrogers" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@cameronoaksrogers</a></p><p>Youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA1ZezsFgphcediUbG_LldA" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Cameron Rogers</a><br></p>