In this short course series, we will explore the transformative potential of play within therapeutic settings. The content of this course will align with neurodiversity affirming principles, celebrating play in all its forms, and play for play's sake. From recognizing the fundamental importance of play to uncovering its diverse therapeutic benefits, each session provides practical insights for integrating play into therapeutic practices. It's important to note that play isn't solely for children; its therapeutic value extends to individuals of all ages. Throughout this series, we'll explore the essential role of play, its capacity to reshape therapeutic approaches, and the myriad therapeutic benefits it offers across different aspects of the human experience.

Key Insights:

• Why play is crucial for human development and well-being.
• Defining play and its diverse forms across age groups and cultures.
• Exploring how play promotes sensory integration, emotional regulation, and relationship building.
• Understanding the neurobiological basis of play and its impact on brain circuitry and stress recovery.
• Learning practical techniques for using play as a therapeutic tool, including pretend play and emotional processing.
• Addressing ethical considerations and celebrating the inherent joy of play for its own sake.

By the end of this series, you will have gained a comprehensive understanding of the importance of play in therapeutic practices and how it can reshape best practices. Whether you're a therapist, educator, caregiver, or simply someone interested in harnessing the power of play for personal growth and well-being, this series will equip you with the knowledge and skills to incorporate play into your professional and personal life effectively. Get ready to play, learn, and transform!

BUNDLE OF ALL THREE WEBINARS

Part 1. Why Play? | June 20, 2024 | 3:30pm- 5:30pm MT
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Discover the ultimate occupation as means and end: play. Play is crucial for human development and well-being throughout life. Explore the diverse forms of play across age groups and cultures, and learn how play promotes sensory integration, emotional regulation, and relationship building. Learn how to be an effective play partner and engage in a 30-minute Q&A session. 

As a result of this course, participants will be able to:

• Recall the fundamental importance of play in childhood occupational participation. 
• Recognize the role of play-based interventions in addressing occupation-centered goals. 
• Identify the connection between play and achieving desired outcomes in occupational therapy practice. 

Part 2. Play & Brain Circuitry | August 15, 2024 | 3:30pm- 5:30pm MT
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Part 3. Pretend Play | October 31, 2024 | 3:30pm- 5:30pm MT
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Address ethical considerations surrounding play and celebrate the inherent joy of play for its own sake. Learn about the psychological development aspects of pretend play, including symbolic and abstract thought, emotional processing, and ethical development. Discuss optimization of play for play's sake as an occupation-centered approach and engage in a 30-minute Q&A session.

As a result of this course, participants will be able to: 

• List the psychological and emotional aspects of pretend play. 
• Recognize the impact of pretend play on psychological development and ethical decision-making. 
• Identify how play-based interventions can support childhood occupational participation in attachment co-occupations, family occupations, and school-related activities. 

Who should attend

Occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, speech language pathologists, physical therapists, special education teachers, and other individuals seeking a better understanding of child development. 

Course Level: Introductory

Instructional Methods:

• Lecture 
• PowerPoint Lecture 
• Group Discussion 
• Case Study 

Presenter Disclosures:

• Financial: The presenter is the Executive Director of the STAR Institute and this presentation was created as a part of her salaried position.
• Non-financial: Nothing to disclose

Presenter: 

Virginia Spielmann, PhD, OTR/L
Executive Director (she/her)

Virginia is a well-travelled speaker, coach and educator on topics including sensory integration, DIR/Floortime, child development and infant mental health. She has conducted trainings in Kenya, Australia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and the USA and leads workshops at international conferences.  

Virginia is a founder and former Clinical Director of SPOT (Speech, Physical, and Occupational Therapy) Interdisciplinary Children's Therapy Center in Hong Kong, where she led a large and widely respected inter-disciplinary team.

Virginia obtained her BSc in Occupational Therapy in Oxford England (2002) and her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Mount Mary University, Milwaukee (2018). Virginia obtained her PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development (with an emphasis on mental health) from Fielding Graduate University in 2021.

Virginia is a DIR/Floortime Training Leader and Expert and clinical consultant for the Interdisciplinary Council for Development and Learning (ICDL). Her extensive pediatric experience includes supporting autistic children and their families, as well as children with Sensory Processing Disorder, infant mental health issues, from adopted families and those who have experienced developmental trauma.  

Cancellation Policy:

Because this program will be recorded and accessible at your convenience, cancellations are not typically accepted. Please contact education@sensoryheatlh.org if you have any questions or concerns.

Do you have a disability that would require special accommodation?

Please contact us at education@sensoryhealth.org and describe how we can help accommodate your needs.

Course Completion Requirements:

Upon full completion of the course video, participants must complete and pass a quiz with at least 80% accuracy to receive a certificate of completion.