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060 Play Schema Series - Disconnection 101
What is the Disconnection Play Schema? A 101 Overview
Have you ever watched your toddler peel every sticker off a book, pull tissues out one by one, or dismantle a block tower you just built… and wondered why they do it?
In this episode, we’re diving into the Disconnection Play Schema, one of the most misunderstood (and often messy!) forms of toddler play.
Disconnection play is all about a child’s deep, instinctive urge to understand how things come apart. It’s the opening, pulling, removing, unzipping, unscrewing, tearing, and undoing that helps children explore how the world works. And while it can look destructive on the surface, it’s actually powerful learning in action.
In this 101 overview, you’ll learn:
- What the Disconnection Play Schema really is
- Why toddlers are driven to pull things apart (again and again)
- How disconnection play supports problem-solving, fine motor skills, persistence, and early STEM thinking
- Why this behaviour is healthy, necessary, and developmentally appropriate
- Simple ways to support disconnection play safely at home (without losing your sanity)
If you’re in the thick of toddler life and feeling overwhelmed by the constant dismantling, this episode is for you. Understanding the why behind the behaviour can completely change how it feels, and how you respond.
Because your child isn’t undoing your work to frustrate you.
They’re doing their work, building the foundations for learning, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Send us a text
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.
Support the show
If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review!
I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message.
Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas
[email protected]
www.playschemas.com
and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!
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By Ruth VercoeWhat is the Disconnection Play Schema? A 101 Overview
Have you ever watched your toddler peel every sticker off a book, pull tissues out one by one, or dismantle a block tower you just built… and wondered why they do it?
In this episode, we’re diving into the Disconnection Play Schema, one of the most misunderstood (and often messy!) forms of toddler play.
Disconnection play is all about a child’s deep, instinctive urge to understand how things come apart. It’s the opening, pulling, removing, unzipping, unscrewing, tearing, and undoing that helps children explore how the world works. And while it can look destructive on the surface, it’s actually powerful learning in action.
In this 101 overview, you’ll learn:
- What the Disconnection Play Schema really is
- Why toddlers are driven to pull things apart (again and again)
- How disconnection play supports problem-solving, fine motor skills, persistence, and early STEM thinking
- Why this behaviour is healthy, necessary, and developmentally appropriate
- Simple ways to support disconnection play safely at home (without losing your sanity)
If you’re in the thick of toddler life and feeling overwhelmed by the constant dismantling, this episode is for you. Understanding the why behind the behaviour can completely change how it feels, and how you respond.
Because your child isn’t undoing your work to frustrate you.
They’re doing their work, building the foundations for learning, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Send us a text
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.
Support the show
If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review!
I would love to hear your playtime stories—whether you’re celebrating a win or trying to crack the mystery behind a new behaviour, I’m here for it. Reach out on social media or drop me a message.
Facebook and Instagram @play_schemas
[email protected]
www.playschemas.com
and if you are keen for a freebie... head to playschemas.com/free to see what there is for you!