School Readiness

Playful, individualised support that builds the confidence, independence, and social and emotional skills children need to feel settled and capable as they step into kinder, prep, and the early years of school.

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School readiness is about far more than knowing letters and numbers. Starting kinder or school is one of the biggest transitions in a child's early years, and children thrive when they feel emotionally secure, capable, and understood. Our School Readiness support helps children develop the underlying skills that make this step feel safe and achievable — self-regulation, independence, social connection, communication, and confidence — always at their own pace.Working from a neuro-affirming, child-led framework, our team draws on play therapy and allied health expertise to gently build these foundations.

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Depending on each child's profile and goals, sessions may focus on managing new routines and separation, building friendships and turn-taking, following group instructions, developing independence with everyday tasks, or strengthening attention and engagement — all through playful, meaningful activities.

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Useful Info

Location & Service Areas

Sessions are held at our Play Studio in Essendon, providing a dedicated space for therapeutic play.

However, we understand that attending the Studio may not always be convenient, so we offer outreach services to homes and schools as well. With my background as a teacher and school counsellor, We are well-equipped to work in both school and early childhood settings.

We can travel up to 60 minutes from our office, with the possibility of extending to further locations upon request. Please contact us for more information.

Fees & NDIS funding

A complimentary discovery call is offered to all new clients. Contact us now.

All pricing is in accordance with NDIS price limits and guidelines.

Whether you are accessing therapy through the NDIS or privately, we are here to support your unique needs. Our goal is to provide high-quality, personalised care, ensuring all clients receive the attention and support they deserve.

Our other services

Individual Play Therapy

Designed for each individual child's unique needs, these sessions utilise a variety of play techniques, such as role-playing, storytelling, art, and sand tray therapy, to provide a safe and expressive environment.

Family Therapy

Designed to include all family members, these sessions aim to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a more supportive and cohesive home environment.

School & Care Team Collaboration

Care-team collaboration involves working closely with teachers, educational staff, and other members of a child’s care team to ensure a cohesive and aligned approach to the child’s development and support.

Counselling

A supportive, confidential space where children, adolescents, and parents can talk through their worries, develop coping strategies, and build the emotional skills that support lasting wellbeing.

Benefits of Play Therapy

Social Difficulties

Many children struggle with social interactions due to shyness, anxiety, or developmental delays. Play therapy provides an ideal setting for enhancing social skills and building peer relationships. In both individual and group sessions, children engage in activities that promote cooperation, sharing, and effective communication. Group play therapy, in particular, offers opportunities for children to interact with peers in a structured and supportive environment.

These interactions help children develop essential social skills, such as taking turns, resolving conflicts, and building friendships. Play therapy fosters a sense of belonging and confidence in social settings, which can significantly improve a child’s ability to navigate social challenges.

Behavioural Issues

Play therapy is an effective intervention for addressing various behavioural issues in children. By observing children’s play, therapists can identify underlying causes of problematic behaviours and work with the child to develop healthier ways of expression. Structured play activities, such as role-playing and games, encourage children to practice positive behaviours and develop self-control. Through play, children learn to understand the consequences of their actions and develop empathy towards others.

This therapeutic process helps children replace negative behaviours with positive ones, leading to improved relationships and a more harmonious home environment. Consistent play therapy sessions can result in significant behavioural improvements over time.

Trauma and Loss

Children who have experienced trauma or loss often find it challenging to verbalise their feelings. Play therapy offers a safe and supportive space for these children to process difficult experiences. By using symbolic play, such as sand tray therapy or drawing, children can express their emotions and work through their trauma at their own pace.

This therapeutic approach helps children make sense of their experiences, facilitating healing and recovery. Play therapy also provides a secure environment where children feel understood and validated, which is essential for their emotional healing. The therapeutic relationship formed with the therapist can offer additional emotional support and stability during this difficult time.

Anxiety and Depression

Our play therapy services are highly effective in addressing anxiety and depression in children. Through play, children are provided with a non-threatening environment where they can express their fears and worries. Play therapy helps children develop coping mechanisms and resilience by engaging them in activities that foster emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. Techniques such as role-playing and storytelling allow children to explore their emotions and learn strategies to manage anxiety and depressive symptoms.

The therapeutic process helps children build self-confidence and a sense of control over their emotions, which are crucial for overcoming anxiety and depression. Regular sessions can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall emotional well-being.

Meet Steph, our lead Play Therapist & founder of Bloom

I am Steph, a dedicated educator and play therapist with over a decade of experience in helping children overcome emotional and behavioural challenges. My journey into the world of education and play therapy began with a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their families.

More About Steph