01/14/2026
Play is where development lives, even when it looks simple,
repetitive, or messy.
In this conversation, Annamarie von Firley joins, Gabriele Nicolet from the Complicated Kids Podcast to unpack why play is essential to early brain development and why children need
hands-on experiences far more than screens, flashcards, or noisy
battery powered toys. We talk about how babies learn to operate
their bodies, how repetition builds neural connections, and why
dumping, filling, banging, sorting, and mouthing objects are
critical stages of growth.
Annamarie explains how the brain develops most rapidly from birth
to age three, why fine motor and sensory experiences support later
skills like writing and speech, and how intrinsic motivation is
built when children are allowed to explore without constant adult
direction. We also discuss toy safety, developmental
appropriateness, and how parents can use everyday items at home to
support learning without spending more money.
This episode is a grounding reminder that play is not indulgent,
chaotic, or optional. It is the work of childhood.
LISTEN NOW:
https://youtu.be/SR0nvLQwpgU
SPOTIFY:
https://open.spotify.com/show/0P3HvVxdn4eQcTVLymaVnI
APPLE PODCASTS:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complicated-kids/id1674232166
PANDORA:
https://www.pandora.com/podcast/complicated-kids/play-is-a-nutrient-not-an-indulgence-with-annamarie-von-firley/PE:1321240303