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
034 Why Is My Toddler Always Throwing Things? Understanding the Trajectory Schema
Ever wondered why your toddler throws their food, launches toys off the couch, or can’t stop running back and forth? It’s not just chaos - it’s science in action.
In this episode, I’m giving you exclusive access to one of the most-loved modules from The Play Schemas Collective - all about trajectory play. You’ll learn to spot the everyday signs that your child is exploring this powerful play schema, and most importantly, what it’s telling you about their development.
We’ll unpack:
- Why your child keeps throwing, dropping, and launching objects (and it’s not to wind you up!)
- How fascination with movement is actually deep learning in disguise
- What’s really going on when your child knocks over towers, flings socks, or can’t stop spinning
- How to tell the difference between "bad behaviour" and a developmental drive that needs support
- Practical ways to channel this energy into safe, satisfying play—without constant battles
Whether you’re folding laundry, pacing the pram, or finally sitting with a cuppa, this episode offers insight that’ll change how you see your child’s play... less mess, more meaning.
Want the free printable handout that goes with this episode? Grab it at playschemas.com/free
Hit subscribe to follow along with more schema-deep dives and share this episode with a friend who’s tired of picking up thrown spaghetti!
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.
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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
and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!