Supporting the social and educational needs of children 2-9 years
Sandra Christianson
Sandra Christianson is the principal consultant and founder of Spectrum Educational Consulting, specialising in individualised learning, comprehensive assessment and collaborative early intervention.
The model draws on current theory, research and practice that supports children of diverse ages and abilities in play.
Therapy sessions deliver customised opportunities for meaningful exploration and interactions. Sessions encourage creative learning together. Both the child/ren and therapist work flexibly to create a mutually enjoyable environment in which to interact and not just act.
Emphasis is given to supporting and maximising individual potential, desire to play, expand interests and form positive relationships.
Children are exposed to purposeful and positive engagement with others through carefully selected groups.
Participants develop noticeable improvements in their self-esteem, motivation to learn, interactions with others and willingness to try new things.
When trust and respect has been established children will be motivated to reach their potential.
Collaboration with parents and professionals is central to all services. Teamwork is invited and actioned through regular feedback meetings with parents and multi-disciplinary teams.
Onsite collaboration with peers provides insight for guiding social learning that extends beyond individual therapy. Equally, these visitations provide peer groups with opportunities to learn to be responsive, accepting and inclusive of children who relate and play differently to themselves.
A unique feature of studio-based sessions is the use of interactive media and current technologies. A Smartboard has been installed for this purpose.
Sandra is an approved service provider under the FaHCSIA 'Helping Children With Autism' scheme. Sandra is qualified as an educator and consultant developmental play specialist with over 10 years of practical educational experience.
Services
Assessment
The evaluation process is specific to each child and based on the presenting concern(s). A combination of parent interview, observation of functional performance, and standardised assessment assist in identifying a child's strengths and needs. The evaluation results guide each child's individual intervention plan.
Individual Play Therapy
- Improves play skills and self esteem - strength-based approach
- Develops abilities to initiate and respond appropriately to play invitations
- Explores and expands play preferences
- Develops social, communicative and play competence
- Offers intensive tuition programs
Paired Play Therapy
- Establishes co-operative learning
- Introduces children to positive peer play partnerships
- Develops flexibility and adaptability
- Explores and develops problem solving skills and experimentation
ME'NU © Play Groups
- Engages children in structured and non-structured group experiences.
- Develops team skills, cooperative play, problem solving, following group directions, joining others, initiating conversation, taking turns, asking for help, transitioning between activities, recognising and responding appropriately to others, expressing own feelings appropriately and expanding verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
Onsite Intervention & Integration
- Customised learning support packs
- Friendship clubs (lunch hour)
- Transition & school preparation
DIY School Projects
Children are guided through school project expectations. Child-produced work is the priority- process over product.
Fingergym Fine Motor Therapy
Australian-developed and tested fine-motor program to help children become more independent in the classroom. Developed by experienced occupational therapy and education professionals.
Creative Holiday Workshops
Expressive friendship programs based on meeting new people and discovering new interests such as cooking, sculpture, board games, puppetry, art & craft.
Social Skills Tools
PALS Social Skills Program (INSCRIPT)
Teaches social interaction including greeting others, listening, sharing, taking turns, dealing with feelings of fear, sadness, anger and solving problems.
Kids' Skills (B. Furman)
15-step process empowering children to create solutions to problems by becoming active participants in skill building and solution finding.
Bounce Back (H. McGrath)
Learn coping skills such as positive thinking and keeping perspective as well as how to be a good friend, being interesting and managing conflict.
Kelso's Choice (D. Hipp & B. Clark)
Builds a foundation for children to discriminate between manageable, "kid-size" problems and those that require adult intervention.
General information
Play Studio Hours
Spectrum Educational Consulting offers flexible business hours to suit individual needs. Sessions are by appointment only and are available Monday - Saturday 8am - 5.30pm.
Enquiries
For more information please contact Sandra Christianson, Spectrum Educational Consulting.
MALONGA
Front Foyer, Level 1
2/142 Ernest St
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Sydney Australia
P: (61 +2) 9922 6952
F: (61 +2) 9922 6952
M: 0403 319 586
E: wherebirdsfly@optusnet.com.au