Family-Focused Play: Simple Joys That Build Connection

By Jessica Jordan, MS. OTR/L

Full-on wind-in-the-hair moment! 😄 I love the joy in this mama and child’s face as we challenge the little one’s core strength, vestibular processing, and tactile processing through playful movement. (And notice how both mom and child are barefoot—an easy way to support grounding and body awareness through sensory-rich input! )

Why Family Play Matters

So much of what we do is rooted in connection, movement, and real-world sensory experiences. I’m continually grateful for families like these who allow me to live my purpose and support them in discovering ALL the things we can do with the community spaces and natural environments we already have access to. 

Family play doesn't have to be complicated to be powerful. Sometimes, it’s the smallest shifts—like putting your phone away for an hour—that help you be more present, regulated, and connected with your child.

6 Simple Ways to Connect Through Play

Here are a few simple ways to share joy and sensory-rich moments this weekend:

• Turn your phone to silent (or leave it in a drawer) for one hour

• Go on a nature walk or hike together

• Play a new board game or puzzle as a family

• Create with play-dough and explore textures together

• Finger paint—messy play builds motor and sensory awareness!

• Explore a local park or splash pad
  

These everyday moments don’t just build connection—they support your child’s regulation, motor planning, and confidence. And when you're present with them in play, you're reinforcing that their experience, their joy, and their movement matter.

Helpful Links

If you found this post helpful, you’ll love our therapy resources! Whether you’re a parent or a therapist, our apraxia and autism courses are designed to provide practical tools, compassionate guidance, and real-world strategies that you can apply every day.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Parents & Caregivers: Autism Training | Online Course for Parents and Caregivers

🧑‍🏫 For Therapists: Therapist Course for Apraxia and Autism | Mentorship for OTs and Therapists

🏥 Work With Us: In-Person Occupational Therapy (San Diego & Long Beach Areas) | Virtual Coaching

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