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
040 5 Messy Play Tips Every Parent Needs with Sam from Messy Mates
Messy play can feel like chaos… but what if it’s actually one of the best things you can do for your child’s learning, confidence, and connection?
In this episode, I sit down with Sam, founder of Messy Mates, to talk about the hidden magic of messy play and how parents can make it easier (and less stressful!) to bring into everyday life.
What we cover:
- Why messy play is a developmental goldmine
- How it boosts creativity and confidence
- The surprising role messy play has in parent–child connection
- Simple ways to contain the mess (so you can actually enjoy it!)
- Why messy play is for all ages... babies to grownups
About today’s guest:
Sam is the creative force behind Messy Mates NZ, a play-based business in Christchurch offering families a safe, joyful space to explore messy play, without the clean-up stress! You’ll often find her covered in rice, slime, or paint, championing play as a tool for learning and family connection.
Find Sam here:
- Instagram: @messymatesnz
- Website: www.messymates.co.nz
- Facebook: Messy Mates NZ
Resources mentioned:
- Play Schemas: www.playschemas.com/free
- Blog + full links: www.playschemas.com/blog
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.
If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review!
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!