Bringing Research Home: Monica Jones on Evidence-Informed Play Resources

Episode DescriptionWhat happens when a research analyst with expertise in  paediatric immunology turns their attention to creating developmentally sensitive resources for families? In this conversation, Dr Kate sits down with Monica Jones from My Binkie Bear to explore how rigorous research translates into joyful, practical tools that support children through life's transitions.Monica shares her unique journey from reviewing academic literature on child development to designing playful resources that invite caregiver involvement. We discuss what makes a resource truly 'evidence-based', why developmental sensitivity matters, and how seemingly simple tools can support complex emotional processes.This episode challenges the false dichotomy between research rigor and playful accessibility, demonstrating that the evidence consistently points toward relationship-based, developmentally appropriate resources as most effective for supporting children's wellbeing.Key Topics CoveredThe Research FoundationWhat the literature tells us about supporting young children through transitionsThe importance of playful, developmentally sensitive resources that can be scaffolded by caregiversHow research translates into practical, accessible tools families can actually useFrom Evidence to CreationMonica's journey from research analyst to resource creatorThe intentional design elements informed by research (sensory components, narrative structure, attachment objects)Why co-regulation and caregiver involvement matter developmentallyThe distinction between resources used WITH children versus given TO childrenReal-World ImpactHow families have adapted and used My Binkie Bear resources in unexpected waysThe powerful story of a child using her Binkie Bear during hospital surgerySupporting children's agency within secure, loving relationshipsCreating Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) through everyday transitionsFor Parents and ProfessionalsWhy "doing your best" is genuinely enoughRemembering that play is children's primary language of communicationHow evidence-based resources support rather than replace parental presence and attunementBridging therapeutic and everyday contextsResources MentionedMy Binkie BearWebsite: mybinkiebear.com Social Media: @MyBinkieBearConnect with Monica Jones on LinkedIn

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