What is the connection play schema… and why does your child seem driven to tie, tape, build, and join everything together?

In this episode, we’re starting with a foundational question: what exactly is the connection schema, and why does it matter so much in early childhood development?

Schemas are deep, instinctive urges that drive children’s play. They aren’t random behaviors—they’re the brain’s way of building foundations for lifelong learning. And the connection schema is all about how things join together… and sometimes how they come apart.

From tying objects together and building endless towers, to taping toys into long lines or wanting to sit close and hold hands, connection play is your child’s natural way of exploring structure, stability, and the forces that hold things in place.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What the connection schema really is (and what it isn’t)
• Why connection play is normal, healthy, and developmentally necessary
• How children use connecting and disconnecting to explore physics, engineering, and problem-solving
• The powerful link between connection play and fine motor development
• How this schema supports early STEM thinking, confidence, and persistence
• Real-life examples of what connection play looks like at home (yes, including all the tape and string!)
  
  
  

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by repetitive play, messy setups, or emotional meltdowns when creations fall apart, this episode offers reassurance and clarity. Repetition isn’t a problem, it’s how the brain wires itself. And when you understand schema-driven behavior, it becomes so much easier to support your child with empathy and intention.

If your child is constantly connecting, tying, taping, building, or taking things apart, they’re learning exactly what they need to learn, and your support makes a remarkable difference.

Let’s dive deeper into the connection schema together.

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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.

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