Embracing "Good Enough" Parenting: The Power of Improv in Connecting with Children with Lacy Alana

Welcome to 'Improv Your Parenting,' where we explore the art of turning parenting into play. In this episode, we're joined by Lacey Alana, a psychotherapist, trainer, and applied improvisation specialist. Lacey, the founder of Yes. And Brain and co-director of Camp Yes And, shares her expertise in integrating play, neuroscience, and relational work across various settings. We discuss how improv can be effectively used in therapy, education, and community contexts to support neurodivergent youth and the adults in their lives. Lacey offers insights into the importance of being present, flexible, and adaptable, whether you're working with young children, teens, or adults. Learn how to meet kids where they are, foster connection, and navigate the challenges of parenting through the principles of improvisation.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:04 Meet Lacey Alana: Psychotherapist and Improv Specialist

01:07 Lacey's Journey into Improv and Therapy

02:11 Integrating Improv into Therapy and Education

07:05 Adapting Improv for Different Age Groups

09:44 The Importance of Flexibility and Perception

19:32 Practical Tips for Parents Using Improv

25:46 Facing and Accepting Emotions

27:11 Modeling Emotional Awareness for Kids

28:07 Reflective Parenting and Teaching

28:42 Managing Classroom and Parenting Chaos

30:43 The Good Enough Parent

40:13 Navigating Neurodivergence in Kids

48:04 Iterative Learning and Growth

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Improv Isn’t Parenting, but Helps: A Journey of Exploration and Connection with Matt Larsen

In this episode of Improv Your Parenting, we welcome Matt Larson, a veteran improv performer and father of two, to explore the intersection of improvisation and parenting. Matt shares insights from his extensive experience in improv at io Chicago, Second City, and more, explaining how the principles of improv—such as listening, emotional connection, and adaptability—translate into valuable parenting strategies. From balancing humor and discipline to navigating neurodivergence within the family, Matt offers practical advice and engaging anecdotes that highlight the importance of curiosity and non-judgment in both improv and parenting.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:05 Meet Matt Larson: Improv Veteran and Parent

00:42 Improv and Parenting: The Early Years

01:49 Lessons from Improv Applied to Parenting

04:03 The Importance of Listening in Improv and Parenting

07:46 Exploring and Heightening with Kids

10:10 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges

18:07 Neurodivergence and Parenting

22:51 Conflict Resolution and Improv Techniques

29:36 Final Thoughts and Parenting Advice

Please join the community at Improvyourparenting@substack.com

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unlocking the Joy of Learning: How Improv Connects with Teaching and Parenting with Elke Reid

Join us in this episode of 'Improv Your Parenting' as we welcome Elke Reed, a dynamic actor, voiceover artist, and improv expert from New York City. Elke shares her journey and expertise in integrating improv techniques with children, making learning and interaction playful and engaging. Discover how she adapts and tailors her approach to suit different age groups and personalities, fostering a fun and creative environment. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or someone new to working with kids, Elke's insights are invaluable. Tune in to explore how to turn everyday interactions into delightful and educational play.

00:00 Introduction to Improv Your Parenting

00:04 Meet Elke Reed Halene

00:42 Elke's Teaching Journey

02:25 Adapting Improv for Different Age Groups

05:27 Engaging Older Kids in Improv

10:32 Elke's Early Life and Passion for Performance

14:58 From Childhood Play to Professional Improv

18:13 Weekly Improv Jam Beginnings

18:30 Hosting and Teaching at Study Hall

19:13 Festival Participation and Networking

20:28 Transition to Teaching in Schools

22:00 Engaging Kids Through Physical Games

29:46 Challenges with Special Needs Students

33:14 Interacting with Parents and Recitals

35:59 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Teachers

37:33 Conclusion and Community Invitation

For more information please visit: https://jeremystrozer.com/improv-your-parenting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.