Navigating Parenting with Play, Presence & Compassion with Jill Lerman

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but it can come with support. In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Elyssa is joined by play and parenting coach Jill Lerman to talk about emotional regulation, conscious parenting, and how to create a joyful, connected family life. They explore the power of play not just for kids—but for adults, too—and why modeling emotional intelligence is one of the most powerful tools a parent has.

Jill opens up about her own journey into parenting support, and together they dive deep into how shame, survival mode, and generational trauma impact how we show up for our children—and ourselves. With practical tools, a few tears, and a whole lot of compassion, this conversation is a must-listen for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, under-resourced, or unsure of how to break old cycles.

✅ What You’ll Learn:

• Why play is a developmental need for everyone (not just kids!)
• How to reframe mistakes as growth opportunities
• The impact of self-sabotage and negative self-talk in parenting
• How to recognize your inner child and shift old patterns
• Practical tools for emotional regulation and quick self-care
• The importance of modeling calm behavior for your children
• How to approach parenting with compassion, curiosity, and consciousness

🕒 Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Play and Parenting Coaching
03:03 – The Importance of Play in Adult Life
06:03 – Jill’s Journey to Becoming a Play Expert
08:52 – Navigating Parenting Challenges and Self-Sabotage
11:55 – The Role of Emotional Regulation in Parenting
15:03 – Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience
17:54 – Conscious Parenting and Breaking Generational Cycles
25:25 – Reframing Mistakes as Opportunities
26:04 – The Impact of Negative Self-Talk
27:05 – Emotional Regulation and Mistakes
29:04 – Understanding Shame and Mistakes
30:04 – Brain States and Child Behavior
32:37 – Recognizing Our Inner Child
34:05 – Generational Patterns and Trauma
35:33 – Tools for Parenting and Self-Care
38:01 – Practical Steps for Low Tolerance to Mistakes
42:53 – Quick Self-Care Strategies

Connect with Jill

📸 Instagram @jillybeansnyc 

Website www.jillybeansnyc.com

Playful Parenting Membership

Free Guide To Independent Play

📌 Follow Elyssa for More:
www.elyssasmith.com/focus
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📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge