The project helps children aged 4 to 12 years who are struggling to cope with their emotions for a range of reasons. It works with specific primary schools across Harborough District who refer children to the project.

Through the project we help children have space and time through a dedicated regular period of therapeutic play sessions with a Home-Start Coordinator in the school. Parents are then invited to join the sessions, and then the sessions are continued at home with parents and a Home-Start volunteer.

Through the sessions children are able to safely express their feelings through play, which will help them learn to regulate their emotions better.

Involving parents means parents learn how play can help, how to let the child lead the play using therapeutic play techniques, and how to improve their relationship with all their children, so continuing the benefits of the school sessions at home.

Our evidence and research show that this results in improved child behaviour, healthier family dynamics, and ultimately better educational and developmental attainment by children.