Background

Before starting at Groundplay, we often felt defeated by our 5-year-old daughter’s rigidity around routines and her difficulty adapting to new ideas. We were also concerned about her limited communication with peers, as she rarely spoke at preschool. With elementary school approaching, we wanted to help her build self-advocacy, flexibility, and social confidence.

Finding Groundplay


Groundplay was recommended to us by another preschool parent who had seen positive changes in their own child. After reaching out, we were matched with Kelsey, a therapist who felt like a perfect fit and immediately put us at ease.

Therapeutic Excellence

Occupational therapy at Groundplay quickly became an essential and positive part of our daughter’s weekly routine. Sessions are intentionally fun and play-based, allowing her to physically regulate while also exploring flexible thinking and problem-solving in a supportive environment. Because the sessions feel safe and enjoyable, she is motivated and fully engaged.

Progress and Outcomes


Working with Kelsey has made a meaningful difference in our daughter’s ability to communicate and connect with others. She used to struggle to respond verbally to unfamiliar adults, but now she has more confidence and tools to use her voice. Kelsey also supports gentle peer interactions during Groundplay sessions, which has helped our daughter practice social skills in a comfortable, supportive setting.

We’ve been especially encouraged to see these changes carry over into school. Our daughter now speaks up in her elementary classroom, including sharing during circle time. Before starting OT, we weren’t sure how much she would communicate at school, but her teachers now tell us she participates and shares often—something we’re incredibly proud of.

Family Impact

OT at Groundplay has brought a real sense of relief to our family. Knowing our daughter is receiving therapy that’s thoughtfully tailored to her sensory needs has made a huge difference. Kelsey has created a sensory program that truly works for her, and we can see it when she comes home more regulated and settled. Because of this, our time together at home feels calmer and more enjoyable, with fewer meltdowns and more connection.

As parents, we’ve also gained so much from our Groundplay sessions. Kelsey consistently shares thoughtful, practical recommendations—from podcasts and play spaces to simple sensory activities we can easily use at home. When our daughter’s regulation needs are met, she’s more successful, and our whole family feels more regulated too.

Note About Kelsey

Kelsey has been an incredible source of support for our daughter and our family. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine love for working with kids are evident in every session. She has a remarkable ability to quickly understand what our daughter needs and thoughtfully tailor each session to support her in that moment. We’ve been especially impressed by how Kelsey incorporates our daughter’s favorite places, characters, and games into therapy, making each session feel personal and engaging.

It’s clear she has taken the time to truly connect with our daughter, meeting her exactly where she is—both emotionally and physically. We are deeply grateful for her energy, insight, and the care she brings to her work.

Conclusion

Groundplay has provided a neuroaffirming, safe space that supports not only our daughter’s development, but our entire family’s well-being. We wholeheartedly recommend Groundplay to families seeking support with regulation, flexibility, and confidence—the impact has been truly meaningful and lasting.