Join Julie as she interviews Simon Airey and they delve into the intersection of neurodiversity and play. In this episode, Simon shares his personal experiences as an autistic adult, discussing how everyday activities like sorting and organising can be forms of play. They also explore the concept of play in early childhood education, emphasising the importance of child-led and neuro-affirming practices. The conversation underscores the importance of educators recognising and supporting diverse play behaviours to create more effective learning environments.

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In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Philippa welcomes Joseph Franks, a veteran in the field of mental health nursing since 2004. Joseph discusses his varied career, which spans working in mental health services, teaching at the University of West London, and his pivotal role as the mental health lead at Reading Prison. His experiences highlight the vulnerabilities faced by individuals in the justice system, particularly those with brain injuries, autism, care-experienced individuals and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Joseph also elaborates on the importance of diversion services and his ongoing work with Health and Justice Consultancy Limited, where he conducts clinical reviews into deaths in custody. He emphasises the need for societal change in responding to complex needs and introduces the concept of EMDR therapy as a potential tool within the justice system.

Joe's Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-franks-5bb0a878/

Paper discussed in the episode: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/about.html

Nadine Burke-Harris; Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/speakers/nadine_burke_harris_1

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In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa welcomes Matt, a senior practitioner at CAPA First Response. Matt shares his expertise on child-to-parent aggression, detailing different forms of violence and aggression, and the importance of addressing these behaviours early. Matt emphasises the need for understanding and strengthening the parent-child relationship through effective communication and play. He also discusses CAPA's unique online support services and his background in community therapy and pastoral care. This episode provides valuable insights and hope for families dealing with challenging behaviours.

Website: https://capafirstresponse.org/

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In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Philippa interviews Angela Griffith, a registered social worker and independent social care consultant with over 30 years of experience in children's social care. Angela discusses her journey in the sector, beginning in 1991, and the changes she has observed over the years. Angela highlights the importance of strong management in children's homes, the diverse services offered, and the system's need for better integration of children's voices. She emphasises relationship-based practice, restorative practices, and the need for emotionally resilient staff. Angela also talks about her consultancy, Children’s Homes Improvement Limited, which provides training, supervision, and strategic support to improve outcomes in the care sector. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in residential care, advocating for a child-centred approach that prioritises the involvement and empowerment of young people.

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In this episode of Pondering and Play Therapy, host Philippa Kelly interviews Charlotte Jenkins, founder of Beacon Family Services and co-founder of the app Looming and Us. Charlotte discusses her journey from a frustrated social worker to establishing innovative, play-based therapeutic solutions for families. She emphasises the importance of connection, nervous system regulation, and understanding the underlying causes of children's behaviour. Charlotte explains how her services and the Looming and Us app provide parents with tools to build stronger relationships with their children through therapeutic play. She highlights the impact of small, consistent play interactions on decreasing family conflict and enhancing emotional resilience. The episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for parents and professionals dedicated to children's mental health.

Website: https://www.beaconservices.org.uk/

lumin&us® helps parents and carers to:

• understand their child’s behaviours
• support their children’s BIG EMOTIONS
• support children experiencing anxiety
• improve relationships
• reduce family conflict
• support their child’s mental health
• improve family wellbeing
• support, calm and soothe their child through co-regulation of their nervous system
• understand the connection between their children’s feelings, thoughts and behaviours

Visit the lumin&us® website for more information, or search lumin&us on the App Store or on Google Play to download the App for free.

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In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' the host converses with Jessica McLaughlin, a senior creative director with 20 years of experience in creating digital content for children. Jessica shares her accidental journey into children's media, her work at Find Your Fun Studios, and her new venture, Play Wise Labs. She discusses the intricacies of designing educational games, the importance of testing with children, the impact of interactive play, and the balance of creating engaging yet safe digital experiences for kids. Jessica also offers insights on helping parents navigate the vast world of kids' digital games.

Website: https://playwise.ca/

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In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa interviews Marguerite Hunter Blair, OBE, the Chief Executive of Play Scotland. Marguerite discusses her extensive career in advocating for children's play in Scotland and Northern Ireland, including her leadership in establishing the Scottish Play Commission, Scotland's Play Strategy, and the statutory duty for play in the Planning Scotland Act of 2019. She also speaks about her recent OBE award for services to play, learning, and health, emphasizing the importance of play for children's well-being and development. The conversation covers her journey from obtaining a master's in adult education to leading key play initiatives, as well as the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perception of play. The episode explores the various types of play, the essential role of parents, practitioners, and community spaces in fostering play, and the importance of play for children of all ages, including teenagers. Marguerite highlights the need for inclusive and accessible play spaces, especially in disadvantaged areas, and underscores the broader social and health benefits of promoting children's play.

Play Scotland - https://www.playscotland.org/

Play Northern Ireland - https://www.playboard.org/

Play Wales - https://play.wales/

Play England - https://www.playengland.org.uk/

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Podcast Episode Description:

This week on the podcast, I'm joined by Marshall Lyles, an expert in using sand tray therapy to support children, adults, and families. Marshall shares his insightful experience on how this powerful therapy helps individuals explore their early experiences and better understand their present situations. We ponder the importance of approaching sand tray therapy with curiosity and openness, encouraging people to examine the judgments and limitations placed on them by family, others or society. Marshall shares how sitting with the emotions that arise during these explorations can be therapeutic, allowing them to become more conscious and empowering for personal understanding. Don't miss this deep, reflective conversation on the transformative potential of sand tray therapy.

Website: https://www.marshalllyles.com/

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