Risky Play 101: What Every Parent and Teacher Should Know

Are today’s kids missing out on one of the most important parts of childhood? In this powerful episode of UNrattled we are joined by Ryan Grady—educator, researcher, and founder of Childology—to explore why risky play is essential for raising confident, capable, and resilient children.

From scaling trees and chasing friends in the yard to balancing on logs and building forts, risky play allows children to test boundaries, solve problems, and build their executive functioning skills—all while having fun. But too often, adult fears about safety or liability shut these experiences down. This episode invites you to reframe your thinking.

Through real-life stories, expert insights, and thoughtful discussion, you’ll learn:

• Why risky play isn’t the same as dangerous play
• How rough-and-tumble activities help children grow emotionally and socially
• What developmental gains are tied to physical and psychological challenges
• How to design safer environments that still allow for risk
• What parents and teachers can do to support kids without stepping in too quickly

Ryan also shares how to tell the difference between healthy risk and unacceptable hazard, and how small changes in mindset and environment can make a huge difference in how children grow, learn, and see themselves.

Whether you're a parent worried about letting go or an educator trying to advocate for child-led exploration, this episode will give you the tools—and the encouragement—you need to support brave, balanced, and joyful play.

00:00–01:00 – Meet your hosts and guest Ryan Grady from Childology

03:15 – What is risky play and why it matters

05:00 – Rough and tumble vs risky play: what's the difference?

07:00 – Why risky play happens more outside than inside

08:15 – Risky ≠ dangerous: understanding the line

11:00 – Common misconceptions: "They’ll get hurt!"

13:30 – The psychology of risk: exhilaration and self-discovery

15:00 – Real-life example: Austin’s daughter climbs and jumps

18:00 – Developmental benefits: motor skills, planning, confidence

21:00 – Designing spaces to support risk-taking

24:00 – Teachers’ role: support without interference

27:00 – One last story: how risk builds resilience

29:00 – Final thoughts: “Let the kids try it. They’ll be fine.”

If you loved this episode, share it with a parent or teacher who needs a reminder that it’s okay to let kids climb, jump, and explore! Subscribe to UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents wherever you listen to podcasts. And don’t forget to visit our website www.unrattledpodcast.com for more tools, resources, and support for early learning and parenting.

Follow, like, and share—we’re stronger together when we learn to shake off the bubble wrap.