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Why Play Matters: Learning from Play-Based Therapy Expert Chloe Strohm
For many families navigating developmental delays, therapy can feel clinical, structured, and—at times—overwhelming. But according to Chloe Strohm, Clinical Director at Playabilities and a
specialist in pediatric occupational therapy, one of the most effective tools for growth is something children already do naturally: play.
At The Aidan Project, we sat down with Chloe to better understand why play-based therapy is a powerful, research-backed approach—and how families can begin using these strategies in everyday life.
What is play-based therapy—and why does it work?
Play-based therapy uses a child’s natural interests as the foundation for learning and development. Rather than separating skills into isolated exercises, Chloe explains that play allows children to build multiple skills at once—communication, motor development, attention, and emotional regulation—all in a way that feels natural. “Children learn best when they’re engaged and motivated,” Chloe says. “Play is how they explore the world. When we use that as the entry point, we’re able to support development in a much more meaningful way.” Through play, children are often practicing many different skills at once—all within a context that feels safe, engaging, and motivating.
What’s really happening during therapy?
To an outside observer, a play-based session might look simple. But Chloe is quick to point out the clinical expertise behind every interaction. “There’s nothing random about it,” she explains. “Every activity is purposeful. We’re targeting specific developmental goals, but through something that feels engaging to the child.” She recalls working with a young child who experienced frequent meltdowns and had limited communication skills. Through play—grounded in the child’s strong interest in Disney characters—therapy became a space for connection and growth. By incorporating familiar music, characters, and toys, Chloe and her team supported the child in developing joint engagement, communication, and early regulation skills. Over time, the child became more able to express her needs and stay engaged in shared activities. “That’s the power of a play-based approach,” Chloe says. “We’re meeting the child where they are—and building from there.”
Why play-based therapy works across so many needs
Play-based therapy is especially effective for children with autism, ADHD, sensory sensitivities, and developmental delays—but its flexibility makes it powerful across ages and skill areas. “With younger children, we might focus on communication and regulation,” Chloe says. “With older kids, it could look like writing a comic book to build writing skills.” Because play meets children where they are, it creates space for individualized, meaningful progress.
Building connection, communication, and regulation
One of the most powerful aspects of play-based therapy is how it integrates multiple areas of development at once. “These skills—communication, regulation, connection—they’re all intertwined,” Chloe explains. “We’re building them together in real-life moments.” Instead of practicing in hypothetical scenarios, children are learning in real time. A favorite toy becomes a tool for connection. A shared activity builds trust. A new sensory experience becomes an opportunity to explore what feels safe—with support. “We’re right there with the child,” she says. “That’s how we build trust. And trust is what allows learning to happen.”
What families can do at home
For parents, the pressure to constantly “teach” can feel overwhelming. Chloe encourages families to take a different approach. “Play is enough,” she says. “When you’re truly engaged—not just supervising—you’re modeling so much.” Simple moments—building blocks, reading, playing at the table—become opportunities to model problem-solving, emotional regulation, and communication. A few tips for parents to try at home: Follow the Leader – Create dedicated play time where your child leads and you follow Less noise and buttons – Choose open-ended toys that spark curiosity and imagination Take off your Teacher Hat – Ask fewer questions and focus on joining the play “You learn so much when you let your child lead,” Chloe says. “What they’re thinking about, what they understand, what matters to them—it all shows up.”
Redefining what therapy really means
Chloe is intentional about reframing a common misconception: therapy is not about “fixing” a child. Her work centers on helping families better understand their child—while also equipping them with tools to support them in everyday life. And importantly, she emphasizes that progress is not linear. “We celebrate every step forward,” she says. “Those small moments matter—and they add up over time.”
3. What do you want donors to understand about The Aidan Project’s impact?
Early intervention changes life trajectories — but only if families can access it. Our work removes financial and logistical barriers during critical developmental windows. A TAP scholarship doesn’t just fund therapy hours; it reduces stress in homes, increases consistency of care, and strengthens long-term outcomes. Philanthropy makes that possible. When donors invest in TAP, they are accelerating access during the moments that matter most.
4. How do you view The Aidan Project’s relationship with service providers?
We see providers as essential partners in this ecosystem. Therapists and specialists are delivering extraordinary care every day. TAP exists to help families find and connect with these providers — to get better support sooner. When navigation improves, everyone benefits. Families feel more confident. Providers see children earlier. The entire system functions more effectively.
5. What keeps you motivated?
I’m motivated by helping families feel confident and equipped to advocate for their children. Access to early intervention therapy should not depend on insider knowledge or financial privilege. When we simplify systems, remove barriers, and connect families to the right support at the right time, we expand opportunity. Knowing that our work helps more children access care during critical developmental windows is what drives me every day.
Meet Our Executive Director
In her first full year as Executive Director, Kellye Crockett is leading The Aidan Project into a season of growth — strengthening scholarships, improving navigation, and expanding family education across our region. We asked her to share more about what drives her work and what’s ahead.
1. Why did you say “yes” to leading The Aidan Project?
It was both deeply personal and deeply professional. As the parent of three neurodivergent children, including one on the Autism Spectrum, I understand firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate developmental delays and complex systems of care. At the same time, my career has centered on launching new initiatives, building innovative programs, and strengthening organizations so they serve people better. The Aidan Project offered a rare opportunity to bring both lived experience and entrepreneurial leadership together — improving real access for real families. That intersection is exactly where I’m meant to be.
2. What excites you most about 2026?
Momentum. In 2026, we are doubling down on improving navigation — making it clearer, faster, and more accessible for families to find the right services. We’re strengthening our scholarship program, expanding the Family Roadmap, and streamlining how families move from first concern to first appointment. I’m also especially excited about our growing speaker series. Bringing experts, providers, and families together for practical, empowering conversations has been energizing — and we’re just getting started.