044 From Mess to Meaning: Baking and Child Development with Play Schemas

Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas

Ever felt like baking with your toddler is more mess than magic? You’re not alone. But what if I told you that the flour on the floor and the endless stirring are actually signs of learning in action?

In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, I share the 10 main play schemas and how they show up while baking gingerbread with your little one. From pouring flour (trajectory) to lining up cookie cutters (positioning) to covering cookies in sprinkles (enveloping), every “chaotic” moment is full of developmental gold.

When you learn to spot these schemas, you’ll stress less, connect more, and maybe even enjoy baking together again.

Today I talk through:

• What play schemas are and why they matter for child development.
• How baking reveals schemas like trajectory, transportation, rotation, and more.
• Simple ways to support your child’s learning without constant correction.
• How baking fosters independence, communication, and emotional connection.

Send us a text

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.

Support the show

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
[email protected]
www.playschemas.com

and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!