m e n u
I have a stockpile of strategies and tools I would love to share with you!
Social-emotional learning is my jam!
You’ve come to the right place if …
your child has recently been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, or are currently going through the
diagnostic process
your child experiences challenges navigating our fast-paced social world, and expressing and regulating their emotions.
you are looking for a service for your child that not only focuses on addressing social-emotional development but also recognises the importance of building their confidence, self-esteem and celebrating their uniqueness
you are struggling to find a service that is heart-centred, that genuinely ‘gets it’ and understands what it is like to raise a young person on the autism spectrum
your child has received a late diagnosis, is not necessarily requiring speech or occupational therapy but struggling to navigate their social world, and/or process their emotions
you value your child’s wellbeing and would like them to learn mindfulness techniques to support their connection to self and the world around them
book now
Session duration: 60 minutes
The Zones of Regulation
Social Thinking curriculum
The Incredible 5 Point Scale
‘The Green Zone’ visual guide to support social communication
Yoga and breathwork games
SEA Bridge curriculum
Sessions can take place within the home or school environment. I use a variety of mindfulness tools, books, games and resources to work towards each child’s goals as outlined in their NDIS plan and during our initial consultation. Some of my favourite resources I love to use in sessions include:
Individualised therapeutic support for children aged 4-12 years, focused on play, self-awareness and social-emotional development.
Connect
I welcome interest from participants aged 4-12 years of age. However, children will be grouped according to age and support needs so groups will run dependent on numbers of participants who apply. I’m hoping to introduce teen groups soon!
We use the Social Thinking® program, and employ methods such as movement and games, breathing and yoga exercises, role play, video and visual support, Social Stories and scripts.
Negotiating and resolving conflict
Teamwork and being part of a group
Non-verbal communication skills
Understanding and responding to bullying
Conversation skills
Recognising, expressing and managing big feelings
Relaxation
Play and social skills
Problem Solving, sharing ideas, and perspective taking
We explore a range of topics including:
Groups are conducted by me and I am supported by 1-2 therapy assistants depending on the size and needs of the groups.
Bendy Buddies is not your typical social skills program! It is an innovative, social-emotional learning experience designed to empower your child, boost self-confidence and self-awareness,
and increase their ability to navigate our social world and
experience social-emotional growth.
Bendy Buddies social skills program for children aged 5-12. Teen groups coming soon!
WHEN A CHILD WITH ASD CAN FEEL MORE CALM AND REGULATED IN THEIR BODY, IT’S EASIER FOR THEM TO MANAGE THEIR BIG FEELINGS, LEARN NEW SKILLS AND ENJOY SOCIAL INTERACTIONS!
Why Incorporate Movement?
JOIN THE WAITLIST
Written reports are available at the conclusion of school term programs at an additional charge if requested
Determined by the content and length of session times in each program
Times/ Dates: TBA
School holiday programs: TBA
Sessions are held during school term for 8 weeks on a Saturday morning at the Willows Children's Centre, 1 Charles street, Mount Barker, SA.
EXTRA INFO: New clients are required to attend a background information and planning session prior to commencement
book today
Consult duration: 60 or 90 minutes
I consult with parents who have children awaiting a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or are currently diagnosed. I can provide insight, tools, resources and support to teachers and parents to identify their child’s unique strengths and also understand their challenges. I implement a strength-based approach to access and integrate supports within mainstream education and community settings.
I have an extensive background in delivering inclusive intervention and education services within the Early Childhood, Education and Disability sectors.
Consulting for parents /teachers/
educational settings
However, over the years I’ve learned a lot about mindset, and become aware of the importance of seeing myself as a human being separate from mother, wife, and teacher, and nurturing my own growth and self-development. I’m ALL about connection, it’s my thing. I love supporting people on the autism spectrum to connect to themselves and the world around them, but I also want to shine a spotlight on how YOU can connect to yourself, and ensure your cup is full, so you can show up for your loved ones x
You know that saying “Put on your own oxygen mask first”? I’d love to say this is second nature for me….but it’s not!
Parent retreats, events, and workshops coming soon!
join the waitlist
-Sharmon and Jon Banks
He wasn’t showing much interest in interacting with other children and was becoming quite anxious in social settings. Since working with Alana, not only is he developing strategies to help him self-regulate and recognise his feelings, but he is starting to recognise behaviour in other people and is learning how to better navigate the school social environment, something which is quite challenging for him.
“Jon and I can’t thank Alana enough for starting her business. Cooper’s social skills were an area of his development that we knew he needed a lot of help with, but had no idea where to start."
We really appreciate the time Alana takes to communicate with us, ensuring that we are able to confidently apply the concepts and language she uses in sessions at home. We also love the Bendy Buddies program which allows Cooper to learn and practice new skills in a safe and comfortable group environment.
WE WOULD HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO HESITATION IN RECOMMENDING ALANA’S SERVICES. HER KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE IS INVALUABLE TO US AND THE PROGRESS WE SEE IN COOPER GIVES US SO MUCH HOPE FOR HIS FUTURE. THANK YOU!!”
-Jessika Harris
Having someone on his team, who not only knows him incredibly well and genuinely cares about his well being, but also combines that with the wisdom and passion she has for the work she does, makes Alana irreplaceable!”
Alana's knowledge and support have been amazing over the years and the bond that she has with my son is truly wonderful.
Let the learning journey begin!
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If school/child care visits are requested, I will then liaise with the site and confirm session availability.
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After the formalities are over, my favourite part is getting to know everything about your child: their interests, strengths, challenges, hopes and dreams. We will then formulate some learning goals together in line with their NDIS plan. These goals will underpin all of the work that we do together during each session.
I will contact you to book an initial 60 minute consultation, where I will meet you and your child. During this appointment I will answer any questions you have and make sure I’m a good fit for your child. You will share any current reports/NDIS goals, we will create a service agreement and discuss finer details such as frequency of sessions and any additional costs such as travel if relevant.
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The Process
Bendy Buddies is a fantastic follow on, additional therapy from regular weekly, individual sessions where a small group of children in a supported environment can put into practice the skills they have learned in their independent sessions and what they focus on as a group. I have noticed such an improvement in my youngest’s confidence and ability to initiate play with others since taking part in these sessions, it’s wonderful to see.
All I really want to provide for my children is the opportunity for them to get as much out of life as everyone else, to have the ability to achieve and take part in whatever they choose, to not feel like they can’t do something because of some diagnosis that they have received. I work hard to find the right service providers that help empower this, Alana is definitely one of these people.”
I have noticed such an improvement in my son’s own abilities to understand and manage their own emotions as well as recognise cues of others. They are able to notice how they are feeling within themselves and independently utilise the regulation techniques that she has taught them. They are so simple and easy that they can be used anywhere, anytime.
She always ensures that the lines of communication are open so that everyone is on the same page and that things are consistent. I have had some previously disappointing and frustrating experiences with various service providers but Alana really goes above and beyond to ensure that the boys get the most out of their session times with her, that things are tailored to them and where they are at, that matters that need addressing are met consistently by all through open communication, and that the boys funding is utilised in the most efficient manner.
He wasn’t showing much interest in interacting with other children and was becoming quite anxious in social settings. Since working with Alana, not only is he developing strategies to help him self-regulate and recognise his feelings, but he is starting to recognise behaviour in other people and is learning how to better navigate the school social environment, something which is quite challenging for him.
