First Play Group

Understanding Early Development

Each workshop begins with psychoeducation on infant and early mental health, exploring how babies communicate through their bodies, senses, and emotions. Parents learn how early experiences shape the developing brain and nervous system, and how attuned caregiving fosters security, trust, and emotional regulation. This foundation helps caregivers understand not only what they’re doing, but why it matters — strengthening confidence and connection in the caregiving relationship.

Introducing FirstPlay®

Following the educational portion, participants are introduced to the principles of FirstPlay®, a developmentally supportive, playful, and nurturing approach grounded in infant mental health and attachment theory. FirstPlay® uses gentle touch, rhythm, and storytelling to promote bonding and regulation between parent and child. Caregivers are guided in simple, relationship-building activities that honor the infant’s cues, encourage co-regulation, and enhance the natural joy of connection.

Group Experience

After learning the foundational principles, participants move into the experiential portion of the workshop. In small groups — typically composed of parent–infant pairs — caregivers have the opportunity to practice FirstPlay® techniques with real-time guidance and feedback. This setting allows for individualized attention while maintaining the support and shared learning that comes from community.

Each group is personalized to meet the needs of its participants. Some families may benefit from a single workshop, while others may choose to participate in a series of sessions to deepen understanding and confidence over time. Every session is designed to be nurturing, supportive, and grounded in developmental awareness, ensuring that each caregiver–infant pair feels seen, safe, and connected.