Services

The Way They Play's simple mission is to create more opportunities for children to connect, explore and thrive through play. I work alongside educators, organisations and communities to build confidence, share knowledge and turn ideas into lasting, play-filled change.

How can I help you to support play?

  • Play site activation

    Uncovering possibilities in the spaces you already have.

  • Resourcing and enrichment for play environments

    Through loose parts and practical playwork support.

  • Mentoring and guidance for practitioners

    Grow confidence, knowledge and capability.

  • Consultancy and strategic advice

    Turning ideas into action.

  • Connecting communities

    Strengthen local play networks.

  • Sharing tools, resources and learning

    Inspire play-filled change.

Loose parts play materials on grass, including a tyre, cones, timber and a pipe beside a handmade sign.

Here's what that might look like:

  • Play Site Activation

    Transform overlooked spaces into vibrant places for play. Work with schools, neighbourhoods, parks, community organisations and services to identify opportunities, remove barriers, and unlock the play potential of existing environments. From temporary activations to long-term cultural change, we help create places where children can truly belong, connect and play.

    Entrance to Playtopia with large wooden letters and kitchen utensils attached to the fence.

  • Loose Parts Play Resourcing & Coaching

    Practical support to create rich, play-filled environments. From sourcing loose parts and setting up play spaces to ongoing coaching for educators, schools and communities, we help build confidence in child-led play and playwork practice.

    Tyres, wooden pallets, plastic crates and a cable spool arranged in an outdoor loose parts play space.

  • Mentoring & Professional Support

    One-to-one and small-group mentoring for early childhood services, educators, playworkers, leaders and advocates. Whether you're developing your practice, launching a new project, or navigating challenges, we provide guidance grounded in lived experience and playwork principles.

    A group of adults gathered beneath a blue tarpaulin in an outdoor play space.

  • Program Consultancy

    Tailored advice and strategic support for early childhood services, schools, organisations, councils and community groups. Services may include: 🫟 Play space design and development 🫟 Community engagement and co-design 🫟 Program development 🫟 Play policy and advocacy 🫟 Staff training and professional learning 🫟 Project planning and implementation

    Children exploring shallow rock pools beside a sandy beach.

  • Connections & Networking

    Building relationships that strengthen play by connecting educators, families, researchers, community groups, schools and play advocates to share ideas, resources, opportunities and collective action.

    Adults seated in a circle discussing printed cards during a group workshop.

  • Ready to Play?

    If you have an idea, a question, or a space with potential for play I'd love to hear from you!

    Let's connect