Hi, I'm Erin!
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Lovely to meet you
Hi! My name is Erin and I am the founder and director of The Playful Life. Since stepping into the professional world, my work has evolved around supporting children to learn and grow through play while offering families a safe place when needed. I have brought this same philosophy into my play therapy practice leading families through every step of the process myself.
I am proud to hold a Masters of Child Play Therapy from Deakin University and as well as registration with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) as a Psychotherapist.
I welcome families from all walks of life into my space, ready to journey beside them as they learn, grow and heal through the magic of play.
If you are looking for safe, supporting space for yourself and your family, please reach out. I am looking forward to meeting you.
My Story
How It All Began
When I created The Playful Life, my vision was clear: to build a space where families feel genuinely seen, supported, and valued. Here, you won’t find layers of administration or impersonal systems. Instead, you’ll connect directly with me—a dedicated partner in your family’s journey. I work with a small number of families so that I am able to genuinely connect with each person, making sure that understanding and respect is the basis of our relationship. I provide an environment where your child is more than just a name; they are an individual, embraced for who they are and supported to thrive in their own unique way.
It has been widely evidenced that play is the natural way that children express their feelings, ideas and responses to what is happening in the world around them, with the positive impact of therapeutic play spreading throughout a child's life (1). I create a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship with each child giving them a permissive space to explore everything that is happening for them (2).
I also understand that parenting can be both deeply rewarding and profoundly challenging. I will meet you where you are, offering a calm, supportive hand as we navigate the complexities of family life together. As a mum myself, I know how important it is to have a village—a community that lifts you up when you need it most. My hope is that The Playful Life can be part of that village for your family.
My professional journey has been a lifelong celebration of play. From my roles as a dance teacher, early childhood educator, primary and secondary teacher, to bush kindy facilitator, I’ve always been passionate about seeing the world through a child’s eyes. Play has been at the heart of everything I do, and I truly believe that when we follow a child’s lead, we unlock their incredible capabilities and strengths.
When I’m not working with families, you’ll find me dancing, enjoying movie nights with my loved ones, getting lost in a good book, or exploring the great outdoors.
I look forward to meeting you and being part of your journey.
Erin Edwards,
Founder and Director of The Playful Life