Sarah Drake’s Therapeutic Play Therapy

11/01/2026

SECOND CHANCE SUNDAY

WHAT ARE SENSORY CIRCUITS?

Sensory circuits are short, structured sequences of movement designed to help a child’s nervous system find that 'just right' level of alertness for learning, play and daily routines. They gently support the brain and body to organise sensory input, regulate emotions and improve focus.

They can be especially supportive for children who struggle with transitions, children who feel anxious about school as they start their day, neurodivergent children, and those experiencing after-school restraint collapse when the day’s demands finally catch up with them.

A sensory circuit follows a clear pattern: alerting activities to wake up the body and brain, organising activities to build focus and coordination, and calming activities to help the child feel settled and ready. The order matters. When done in sequence, sensory circuits can support regulation rather than overwhelm.

They’re flexible, quick and practical. A circuit can take as little as 10–15 minutes and can be delivered at home or at school. First thing in the morning, after lunch, before homework, or as part of an emotional regulation routine, sensory circuits fit around real life.

They’re not about pushing children. They’re about meeting sensory needs, building predictability, and helping children feel safe and supported in their bodies.

Our Sensory Circuits Resource Pack includes clear explanations, visual prompts and ready-to-use activities to help adults feel confident running sensory circuits with children and young people.
Link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.

11/01/2026

Wow! This is an incredible resource!!

>>> https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2022/07/a-handy-chart-featuring-over-30-ipad.html

11/01/2026

SECOND CHANCE SUNDAY

Ever noticed how a child can “hold it together” all day… then explode at home? It is also relevant for us as adults.

This is one of my favourite ways to explain why that happens — and it’s simple enough to do with a real Coke bottle.

Sit with your child and pass the bottle back and forth.
As you talk about their day, gently shake it each time a stress or trigger comes up. Share your own triggers also.
Noise. Work pressure. Friendship stuff. Trying to behave. Trying not to cry.

Then pause and ask:
“What do you think will happen if I take the top off now?”

That moment matters.

It helps children see that the explosion isn’t about being naughty or out of control — it’s about pressure building with nowhere to go.

From there, you can explore the real question:
How do we take the lid off without an explosion?

We talk about letting the bottle settle first.
Deep breathing.
Quiet time.
Food.
Movement.
Connection.
Time to decompress.

Regulation isn’t about forcing calm.
It’s about releasing pressure safely — a little at a time.

👉 You can find The Coke Bottle Activity linked in the comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.

I’d love to know — what “shakes the bottle” most for your child after school?

11/01/2026

10/01/2026

SPD is complicated and can look different in every person who has it. This is a quick list of possible ways it can manifest... but it's important to note that the left/right sides are not mutually exclusive. Many people exhibit a mix of behaviors from both sides.

Learn more about SPD >>> https://www.thechaosandtheclutter.com/product/sensory-processing-explained?ref=89

We love sharing helpful ideas! This affiliate link also helps us continue to provide you with valuable resources and run this page.

10/01/2026

Write CORNER below for the link

This Calm Down Corner kit is my favorite way to bring more peace and focus into the classroom. Students love the choice boards, breathing visuals, and animal strength cards — and you’ll love the improved classroom flow.

Write CORNER below and I’ll send you the link to create your own calm corner.

10/01/2026

10/01/2026

When we talk about behaviour, it’s easy to focus on what’s visible.
The words. The reactions. The moments that feel hard to manage.

But behaviour is rarely the whole story.

This isn’t just about understanding children — it’s also about exploring ourselves.
What is being stirred in us when a behaviour shows up?
What feels uncomfortable, threatening, or familiar?
What part of our nervous system is being activated?

When we pause and ask “What is driving this behaviour?” we create space for compassion — both for the child and for ourselves. We move away from labels and punishment, and towards understanding, safety, and support.

The behaviour iceberg reminds us that what we see on the surface is often the tip of something much deeper. Beneath it may sit overwhelm, anxiety, unmet needs, fear, or a need for control when life feels unpredictable.

Curiosity changes everything.
It shifts us from reaction to reflection.
From control to connection.
From “what’s wrong?” to “what’s going on here?”

Because behaviour is communication — and understanding begins when we’re willing to look below the surface.

31/12/2025

Most popular posts May 2025

Co-regulation equals connection.

But sometimes, even with the best intentions, we accidentally send mixed signals.

Here are 5 DON’Ts of co-regulating when your child is overwhelmed:

31/12/2025

Many good resources and explanations about this all too common experience; one source https://psychcentral.com/blog/childhood-trauma-overcoming-the-hurt-of-invalidation -is-it

31/12/2025

Happy New Year to all my clients and families, past present and future. I wish you all the best for the new year ahead. I look forward to working with you all in the year ahead.