PLAY is our brain's favourite
way of Learning
PLAY is powerful — when guided by connection and safety
Connected Kiddos provides attachment-focused, adult-guided play therapy for children and families across Queensland. We support children with developmental differences, neurodivergence and early trauma to build emotional regulation, confidence and secure relationships — with caregivers actively involved in every step.
At Connected Kiddos, therapy does not ask children to manage big feelings alone. Instead, we focus on strengthening the child–caregiver relationship so children experience safety, predictability and connection first.
HOW WE WORK
At Connected Kiddos, we believe children feel safest — and learn best — when caring adults are supported to lead with confidence, attunement and structure.
Rather than asking children to navigate big emotions on their own, our work focuses on:
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strengthening the child–caregiver relationship
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supporting nervous system regulation before behaviour change
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helping caregivers understand what their child needs, not just what they do
Caregivers are actively involved in sessions and supported through regular reflection and feedback, so change carries into everyday life — where it matters most.
THERAPEUTIC PLAY FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
At Connected Kiddos, play is not used as free expression alone — it is used intentionally to support emotional regulation, relationship development and everyday functioning.
Children with developmental delays, disability, neurodivergence or early trauma often need more support to feel safe, regulated and connected before learning and behaviour can shift. Our work focuses on creating predictable, relational experiences where children can practise regulation, communication and social skills alongside a supportive caregiver.
Through guided, attachment-focused play, children are supported to:
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develop emotional regulation and flexibility
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strengthen social and relational skills
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build confidence and a sense of competence
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experience safety and connection with their caregiver
For children with additional needs, therapeutic play is not just enjoyable — it is a vital pathway to growth, healing and participation in everyday life.
OUR THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
At Connected Kiddos, therapy is guided by evidence-informed, attachment-focused and nervous-system-aware approaches. Each is used intentionally and always involves the child’s caregiver as an active part of the process.
Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT)
A nervous-system-informed approach that supports children to recognise, experience and regulate emotions, while also helping caregivers build emotional awareness, co-regulation and attunement alongside their child.
AutPlay®
A play-based therapy approach designed specifically for neurodivergent children, including autistic and ADHD profiles. AutPlay integrates play, regulation and relational support to help children build emotional understanding, flexibility and social connection in ways that respect their neurotype.
Theraplay®
An evidence-based, adult-led child and family therapy that builds attachment, trust, self-esteem and joyful engagement. Sessions are structured and relational, supporting children to feel safe, regulated and connected while strengthening the caregiver–child relationship.
