Sunshine Circles is an innovative, therapeutic programme introduced by the Alex Panton Foundation, based on the Theraplay approach. Designed to foster social and emotional development for vulnerable children, Sunshine Circles takes a more clinical approach than traditional classroom-based instruction. Through structured play and interaction, this programme uses playful, nurturing group activities to help children build trust, feel valued, and develop emotional resilience.
The Theraplay approach emphasizes connection and relationship-building through fun, guided activities that encourage cooperation, self-regulation, and emotional growth. Currently, Sunshine Circles is being delivered in selected schools, primarily targeting small groups of children identified as needing additional emotional support.
APF has coordinated with The Theraplay Institute to deliver training to local personnel to lead groups with Sunshine Circles practices that focus on creating nurturing and engaging environment that encourages children through playful activities. Trainees include educational psychologists, teaching assistants, occupational therapists, behavioural support service members and school inclusion support members. These dedicated personnel are at the following schools:
Below are photos from the January 2025 Training.
Globally noted key benefits of the Sunshine Circles programme include:
We have collected data from the facilitators of the Sunshine Circles groups over the past year and look forward to analyzing that data to assess the effectiveness of this approach with our youth. As we move forward, we hope to expand the programme’s reach to more schools and meet children where they’re at.