027 Why I Still Say “Be Careful” Even Though I Love Risky Play

Do you ever catch yourself saying, “Be careful!” — even when you’re trying to let your child take healthy risks? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong.

In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, we unpack one of the biggest tensions many parents face: wanting to support our children confidence and independence, while still keeping them safe.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how much risk is “too much” when your toddler is climbing high, jumping off furniture, or running full speed down a hill, this episode is for you.

We’re diving into the world of risky play — what it is, why it’s developmentally important, and how it links to the play schemas that drive your child’s behaviour.

 You’ll hear honest reflections from a fellow mum (that’s me!) who still says “be careful” sometimes — and why I’m okay with that.

In This Episode, We’ll Explore:

• What risky play actually means — and why it’s vital for building resilience, body awareness, and confidence
• The difference between dangerous play and developmentally appropriate risk
• Why the play schemas behind risky play matter (think trajectory, rotation, orientation…)
• How to respond with calm, connection, and trust instead of fear or control
• Simple scripts you can use to coach your child through risk, like:
   “Do your hands feel steady?” or “What’s your plan?”

Whether your child is 1 or 5, understanding their drive for risky play through the lens of schemas can transform your parenting — helping you say “yes” more often, and feel good about it.

You’ll also learn:

• The 10 most common play schemas and how they show up in risky play
• Why letting your child test their limits doesn’t make you reckless — it makes you responsive
• How saying “be careful” with intention can still build connection and emotional literacy
• Ways to support schema-led exploration safely at home, on the playground, and in nature

Because parenting is full of moments where we just want to keep them safe — but when we understand what’s driving their behaviour, we can support growth and confidence without shutting down their curiosity.

So pop this episode on while you’re making a cuppa, folding the washing, or out for a walk with the pram — and let’s make sense of the messy, marvellous world of toddler play together.

Press play and feel more confident supporting your child's exploration — even when it feels a little bit scary.

Listen now and don’t forget to:

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If you’ve ever wished you had a group of parents who just get it — welcome to The Play Schemas Collective. It’s where you can ask questions without judgement, share those little wins only another parent would understand, and dive deeper into your child’s play with people who speak your language. Join us at playschemas.com/collective — we can’t wait to meet you.