Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas
Kia ora, Hello! I’m Ruth Vercoe, a teacher-turned-mum, here on a mission to demystify Child’s Play through understanding play schemas.
If you’ve ever found yourself asking, 'Why is my child doing that?'—whether it’s throwing their soft toys, hiding stones around the house, or lining up their crayons —then you’re in the right place, and certainly not alone.
Here, we’ll explore the magic of play through the lens of play schemas—those hidden repeated patterns in your child’s behaviour that hold the key to unlocking more meaningful play and connection.
Join me each week as we dive into playful insights that will help you bring more joy, connection and understanding into your parenting journey.
Get in contact at
Email Ruth@Playschemas.com
Facebook and Instagram @Play_Schemas
Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas
013 Play Schemas and Love Languages - a Match Made in Heaven
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LOVE to a Child is Spelt TIME: Understanding the 5 Love Languages of Children
💛 Do you ever wonder if your child truly feels loved? You tell them “I love you” a hundred times a day, but sometimes, their behaviour suggests they need more. The secret? Kids don’t just hear love—they experience it. And every child has their own way of receiving love.
In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we dive into Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages of Children and how you can use play to meet your child’s emotional needs in a way that makes sense to them. Whether your little one thrives on cuddles, words of affirmation, quality time, gifts, or small acts of kindness, understanding how they receive love can transform your relationship and strengthen their emotional security.
🎙️ Inside This Episode, You’ll Discover:
✅ The 5 Love Languages of Children—and why toddlers need all of them!
âś… Why love is the foundation of all child development (without it, nothing else sticks!)
✅ How your child’s play behaviour gives clues about their emotional needs
✅ Why kids’ love languages change—especially before age 5
âś… How big life changes (like a new sibling) can shift how they seek connection
✅ Practical ways to show love through play—based on your child’s play schema
✨ A Full Emotional Tank = A Happy, Secure Child
Children don’t always have the words to say, "I need love right now." Instead, they show us through clinging, meltdowns, defiance, or attention-seeking behaviour. In this episode, we unpack how to spot the signs of an empty emotional tank—and how to fill it up again in a way that truly resonates with your child.
🚀 What’s Coming Next?
This episode is just the beginning! Over the next few weeks, we’ll deep dive into each love language and explore how you can nurture it through play.
💌 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!
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💬 Share your thoughts—what’s your child’s favourite way to receive love?
Because at the end of the day, love isn’t just something we say—it’s something we show. ❤️
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I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message.
Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas
Ruth@PlaySchemas.com
www.playschemas.com
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