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Independent play isn’t just possible—it’s essential for your child’s growth. In this Q&A, Dr. Sarah Bren and Dr. Emily Upshur share the best toys, activities, and strategies to foster self-directed play. Learn how to set realistic expectations, create a “yes space,” and encourage independence without guilt or overwhelm.

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339. Q&A: What are the best toys and strategies to actually get my child to play independently?

Toddler plays independently with a puzzle book on a foam mat.

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210. Independent sleeping: Practical solutions for getting your child to stay in their own bed with Eileen Henry

Two parents & two children all sleeping in the same bed

In this episode, sleep specialist Eileen Henry and I discuss a common challenge: how to get your child to make it all the way through the night in their own bed.

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105. How RIE can evolve into lifelong respectful parenting: Growing your parenting approach as your child grows with Janet Lansbury

How RIE can evolve into lifelong respectful parenting

Janet Lansbury was talking and blogging about respectful parenting long before it became a buzzword. Informed by her mentor and RIE creator Magda Gerber, Janet has spent decades encouraging parents and teaching them how to create loving and supportive environments for their children to help them grow into compassionate, confident, and resilient individuals.

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101. How to improve your newborn’s sleep without sleep training or crying it out with Eva Klein

Founder of My Sleeping Baby, Eva Klein.

Getting proper sleep as a new parent can have a huge impact on your mental health and subsequently the health of your infant. But in order for you to get good stretches of sleep, you need your little one to get into a healthy rhythm.

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