Kids World

Get to know Kids World

From Kids World's website.

• Our approach

  Kids World uses the DIR®/Floortime model, a play-based, relationship-centred approach that emphasises building meaningful interactions between children and their caregivers. Sessions focus on understanding each child's unique developmental profile and individual differences in sensory processing, motor planning, and emotional regulation. Therapists work collaboratively with parents, who play an active role during sessions and receive guidance on implementing strategies at home. The approach celebrates each child's strengths and honours their authentic way of experiencing the world, with the goal of supporting their functional emotional development and fostering a sense of agency and confidence. Sessions are tailored to each child's needs and create a safe, supportive environment that respects neurodiversity.

• Working with families

  Parents play an active role during individual therapy sessions and are regularly guided and coached by the therapist on strategies to implement at home. The practice works closely with families to understand each child's developmental stage and individual processing needs, emphasising collaborative, relationship-based support. Communication with families is central to the therapy process; therapists regularly review your child's progress with you and discuss therapy goals during the initial assessment and throughout the therapy journey. The practice also offers parent training workshops throughout the year where groups of parents learn about the DIR®/Floortime model and how to understand and analyse their child's individual profile.

• Meet the team

  The team includes Georgina Ahrens, the director and founder, an occupational therapist with a Bachelor of Applied Science (1996) and advanced certifications in DIR®/Floortime through ICDL and Profectum Foundation, where she serves as Assistant Faculty. Other occupational therapists include Gloria Gallardo-Walker (Master's degree from Rush University, 1999, with experience in early intervention), Liz Cawrse (Bachelor of Applied Science from Sydney University, 2002, with expertise in autism and developmental differences), Retha Riekert (Bachelor's from University of Pretoria, 2000, certified in DIR®/Floortime Advanced), Kevin Lee (Master of Occupational Therapy from University of Sydney, 2020), Julia Novis (University of Sydney graduate), and Jessica Du (Master's from University of Sydney). All therapists are trained in the DIR®/Floortime model under Georgina's mentorship and trained in additional therapeutic approaches including the Safe and Sound Protocol, Therapeutic Listening, and sensory integration.

• Your first visit

  At the initial two-hour assessment, the therapist observes and evaluates your child's interactions with caregivers, sensory modulation, regulation, discrimination, and motor planning skills. You'll receive a verbal review at the end of the session and then an extensive written report with detailed analysis and recommendations for your child's ongoing support. Before the appointment, you'll complete questionnaires to help the practice learn more about your child. Once completed, the practice will match your child with a therapist who fits their needs best, and you'll then schedule regular therapy sessions. No referral is needed to book an appointment, though you may wish to consult your GP or paediatrician if considering a Medicare Health Care Plan.