Aideen McCartney is a certified play therapist and parenting coach with more than 20 years of experience supporting children and families. She is passionate about the role of play in healthy child development, with particular interests in supporting neurodivergent children and strengthening family relationships through creativity, curiosity and connection.

In this episode of The Debrief, Aideen discusses what play therapy can teach the Early Years sector. She explores why behaviour should be viewed as communication, the emotional needs that may sit beneath challenging behaviour, and the important role adults play in helping children develop emotional regulation.

The conversation also offers practical guidance for Early Years practitioners, including how to respond when a child becomes overwhelmed, the importance of regulating and connecting before reasoning, and how compassionate practice can work alongside safety, consistency and clear boundaries.

The Debrief is brought to you by WMC Training.