In this week’s episode, Emma sits down with Dr. Martha Deiros Collado (@dr.marthapsychologist), a clinical psychologist specializing in parenting and child development.
Episode notes:
Guest Introduction:
Meet Marta, a clinical psychologist, author, and Instagram creator known for her practical, compassionate advice for parents.
Marta shares her journey from working in the NHS to becoming a trusted voice in the parenting community.
Key Topics Discussed:
Childhood Play and Its Influence on Adulthood:
Marta reflects on her favourite types of play as a child, including imaginary role play, building, and scientific exploration.
How these forms of play shaped her career and approach to life as a clinical psychologist and mother.
The Importance of Play in Parenting:
Why play isn’t just for kids—it’s a tool for connection, understanding, and empathy.
How Marta uses play therapeutically in her practice to build trust with children.
Lessons from Parenting:
Exploring the nuances of guilt vs. shame as a working parent.
Why parenting has grown Marta as a person and deepened her relationship with herself.
Siblings and Individuality:
The challenges and joys of parenting multiple children with different personalities.
How focusing on individuality instead of fairness fosters stronger family bonds.
Adolescence and Letting Go:
The importance of trust and communication during the teen years.
Why letting go and allowing teens to become their own person is critical.
Parenting in the Social Media Era:
The impact of information overload on modern parenting.
Marta’s advice on being intentional with parenting content and protecting intuition.
Marta’s Book – How to Be the Grown-Up:
An empowering guide that focuses on the parent’s role in shaping a healthy, trusting relationship with their child.
Why emotional accountability, self-awareness, and modeling behavior are key to being a great parent.
Key Takeaways for Listeners:
Play is more than fun—it’s foundational for empathy, connection, and understanding both in childhood and adulthood.
Parenting isn’t about controlling your child but growing alongside them.
Guilt can be a valuable tool for self-reflection and growth if approached with curiosity instead of avoidance.
Closing Thought:
“Play isn’t just a childhood pastime—it’s a lifelong tool for connection, growth, and joy.”
Follow Dr. Martha here for more parenting advice and resources:
https://www.drmarthapsychologist.com
This episode is perfect for anyone navigating the challenges of parenting, interested in child psychology, or simply curious about what helps children and families thrive.
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