About Dianna
Supporting children through play, connection and early childhood development
Hello, I’m Dianna. I’m passionate about supporting children and families through gentle, strengths-based and relationship-focused approaches that honour each child’s unique way of learning, growing and being.
I also walk alongside equine practitioners through reflective mentoring that supports thoughtful, responsive and relationship-focused practice.
My Journey
My journey working alongside children began more than 30 years ago in early childhood education, where I developed a deep appreciation for the many ways children learn, grow and experience the world.
Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to the quieter moments — the way children communicate through play, the feelings that can sit beneath behaviour, and the stories shared without words. These experiences led me to deepen my understanding of children’s emotional worlds and the importance of creating spaces where children feel safe, understood and supported.
I hold a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching), have completed graduate training in Play Therapy, and am an Equimotion Wellbeing Coach, alongside further professional learning in play-based, relationship-focused and equine-supported approaches that strengthen children’s development, wellbeing and connection.
Through my work, I have seen the value of giving children space to be themselves — to explore, express, connect and grow in ways that feel meaningful and natural to them. Play, relationships, nature and opportunities to engage alongside ponies can each provide different pathways for children to communicate, participate and discover their own capabilities.
This journey continues to be shaped by the children and families I walk alongside, as well as the practitioners I support through reflective mentoring. Each experience continues to reinforce a simple belief at the heart of my work: when people feel seen, supported and connected, confidence can grow, capability can develop and meaningful connections can strengthen.
My Approach
My work is grounded in a gentle, strengths-based and relationship-focused approach that honours each child’s strengths, interests and individual pathway.
I believe that:
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Children learn through play, exploration and meaningful experiences
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Connection comes before expectation
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Every child deserves to feel seen, heard and valued
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Growth is supported through safe, trusting relationships
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Children thrive when their strengths and capabilities are recognised
Through play, relationships and opportunities to explore alongside ponies, children can express themselves, build confidence, develop skills and make sense of their world in ways that feel natural, meaningful and responsive to who they are.
What I Bring
Alongside my experience as an Early Childhood Teacher, I draw on a range of play-based, relationship-focused and therapeutic approaches to support children’s development, wellbeing and learning.
These approaches may support children to:
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Strengthen emotional wellbeing and regulation
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Build confidence and a positive sense of self
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Develop communication and self-expression through play
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Build social and emotional capabilities
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Explore experiences, feelings and ideas in meaningful ways
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Develop skills through gentle, responsive and respectful support
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching)
Graduate training in Play Therapy
Equimotional Wellbeing Coach
LEGO® Based Therapy Facilitator
Learn to Play Facilitator
Horse Powered Reading® Facilitator
Hygge-informed practice
30+ years early childhood experience
A Little More About Me
Outside of my work, I have a deep appreciation for relationships, animals and the natural world. These connections continue to shape the way I work, with a focus on calm, presence, curiosity and understanding.
Working With Children and Families
I see my role as walking alongside children — not leading or fixing, but supporting, noticing and creating space for growth.
Each session is shaped around the child’s strengths, interests and individual pace, allowing opportunities to explore, express, connect and build confidence in ways that feel meaningful and safe.
Families are an important part of this journey. I value open communication, shared understanding and genuine partnership, working together to support each child within sessions and in everyday life.
You’re Welcome Here
If you are exploring support for your child, I want you to know that you are not alone.
You are warmly invited to reach out, ask questions and take the time to find what feels right for your family.