At New Horizons Lenah Valley, we believe that a regulated heart is the foundation of a curious mind. We are proudly deepening our commitment to early childhood development by addressing what we believe is the most vital need of the modern child: the literacy of emotional resilience. 

By embedding the expertise of a fully Registered Psychologist – who also holds a Master of Child Play Therapy – directly into our daily preschool environment, we weave deep emotional and therapeutic support into our daily inquiry work, ensuring that your child’s self-esteem and emotional co-regulation are nurtured alongside their cognitive growth.

We recognise that many families in our community navigate complex challenges, including early childhood anxiety and social-emotional hurdles. In response, our model bridges the gap between early education and therapeutic support, bringing a deep psychological understanding into the lived, daily fabric of the child’s day.

therapeutic play & reggio emilia principles

• The Hundred Languages of Expression: Drawing on the Reggio Emilia principle that children possess a ‘Hundred Languages,’ we recognise that behaviour is a form of communication. We seek to understand the meaning behind each child’s actions to fully support their right to be heard, respected, and understood, respecting the emotional narrative they express.
• Environment as the Third Teacher: Our spaces are intentional, beautiful, and full of materials that spark inquiry. Understanding that the ‘Environment is the Third Teacher’, we curate our spaces to support the nervous system, prioritising soft transitions and sensory-rich spaces that actively help children find their center and practice self-regulation.
• Educator as Co-Regulator: We view the educator as both a researcher and a co-regulator working alongside children. We prioritise authentic presence, purposeful connection, and remaining deeply grounded so that every child feels safe to exercise their agency and explore their world.
• Pedagogical Documentation: We document the journey of inquiry and the expression of ‘the Hundred Languages’, reflecting the heart of Reggio Emilia documentation. Our practice celebrates the emotional right of play – how a child navigates frustration, practices empathy, and builds resilience – honouring the child’s personal growth, emotional wellbeing, and inner strength alongside their cognitive skills.