About Thinker’s Theatre
Welcome to Thinker’s Theatre, a therapeutic and group-based experiential learning method designed by Sarah Mae Simcoe, Clinical Psychologist and advocate of play-based learning.
The Thinker's Theatre method inspires motivation, imagination, confidence, and uniqueness drawing on evidence-based therapy tools and is infused with the art of drama and play! Through immersive scenarios and interactive games, Thinker’s Theatre offers a safe, dynamic, and supportive environment to inspire skills in solving problems, making decisions, understanding perspectives, cooperation, and friendship.
Thinker’s Theatre Method
The Thinker’s Theatre method is designed for young people, and the connection with their grown-ups (also known as parents, educators, therapists, and supporters!) This method is designed to be transferred home and launched into everyday settings, through a spark of curated exploration, playfully imagined scenes, and themed situations – loungerooms can become enchanted forests, kitchens can convert to a martian’s mathematical Lab, and classrooms can be crafted into multi-sensory puzzle palaces.
Each ‘scene’ of the sequence is designed to inspire and encourage connection, curiosity, exploration, learning, and creativity – unique for each child. Thinkers set out to encounter a range of tools and technologies to embrace their thinking, actions, and communication and share this with others.
Each session is informed by evidence-based therapy and learning design and follows a well-researched and respected sequence of social-cognitive neuroscience (whoa, that’s a mouthful). This supports a solid foundation of belonging and safety for unmasked expression, before launching into the next phase of expression, learning, thinking, and solving, together! Facilitators guide the sequence, though remain agile and flexible to the energy, needs, and direction of the group process and adventure.
These interactive sessions are intended to transport groups into fictional places and imaginaria to engage and facilitate spontaneous interactions, unpredictable puzzle-solving, creative code-breaking, and caring communication. Within a stimulating and novel atmosphere, groups are seen to share stories and nudge narratives to safely explore their experience and adventures, with neurokin.
We’re curious… which would you prefer? Getting out the door on time or, being given a magical teleporting passport to travel across the universe on an important mission - transitions made fun, inspire new ideas, and explore sensory experience.
Our mission transcends conventional boundaries, and adventures across theoretical and professional orientations and practice settings to provide an enriching experience for children, families, clinicians, and educators.
Mission
A Pantheoretical Approach
We believe that no single theory can capture the vast complexities of human behaviour and social interactions – no matter which neurokind. That's why Thinker's Theatre employs a pantheoretical perspective, integrating diverse theoretical frameworks to provide a well-rounded & integrated understanding. Here, psychology meets storytelling, science blends with art, and practical skills mingle with emotional intelligence.
A Dynamic Process Model
Every interaction at Thinker's Theatre is not just an event but a process, mirroring the richness and complexity of real-world scenarios. This approach allows both Guides and Thinkers to tune into the underlying dynamics of each activity, making each encounter as impactful as it is fun and engaging.
Competency-Based Learning
Our unique model is competency-based, providing a strong foundation for self-awareness, self-paced learning, and skill development. Whether you're a Guide or a Thinker, you'll gain invaluable insights into your strengths, interests, and areas you wish to bring extra care or those inspired to grow.
Developmental Flexibility
Thinker's Theatre accommodates the varying developmental needs of its Thinkers. Our approach is compatible with developmental models of care, offering a tailored experience that aligns with transformation stages & developmental journeys.
Evidence-Based Practices
Grounded in the scientist-practitioner model, Thinker's Theatre incorporates the latest best practice standards, trauma-informed, and neurodivergent-affirming approaches to ensure a compassionate, safe, and meaningful experience.
Experiential Learning
At its core, Thinker's Theatre is about 'being’ – how we ‘think’, ‘feel’ & ‘do' our life. Our experiential learning process encourages hypothesizing (“pop on your science coat!”), planning (“here’s your compass!”), experimenting (“Let’s try!”), experiencing (“your discovery, your way”), and reflecting (“Curious, what did you notice?”), making each session a journey of discovery, shared learning, and growth.
Values
Sparking Joy and Optimism
Thinker's Theatre aims to bring joy and optimism to each Thinker. By celebrating the art of play, nurturing creativity, and fostering a sense of belonging, the heart of each moment and learning scenario is to create a base for brain-body safety and empower children to embrace their unique strengths and navigate their challenges with hope and spirit for the future.
The Power of Play and Imagination
Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood, enabling children to explore, create, learn, and deeply connect. Thinker's Theatre harnesses the power of play to inspire motivation, confidence, and unique self-expression. Through immersive scenarios, interactive games, and the art of drama and theatre, children engage their imaginations, problem-solving skills, and perspective-taking to experience personal growth, in their own time, in their own way.
Neurokin and Connection
Thinker's Theatre acknowledges the strength and value of neurokin and connection. By removing passé social skill expectations and co-creating an environment where behaviour is reframed and relearned towards calmness, curiosity, and creativity. Genuine connection! A space surrounded by peers, parents, and practitioners, who share similar experiences and understand their unique perspectives, become neurokin. Thinker's Theatre provides a platform for building friendships, cooperation, and a sense of belonging.
Embracing Neuro-Affirming Principles
At the heart of Thinker's Theatre are guiding principles that embrace the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodivergence. These principles shape this approach and ensure a friendly and positive therapeutic ecosystem. Let's explore the key elements that encourage Thinker's Theatre to support neuro-affirming growth and well-being:
Embracing Diversity in Social Intelligence
Thinker's Theatre celebrates the rich diversity of social intelligence within the autistic community. We recognise and appreciate the unique ways in which neurodivergent children communicate, connect, and navigate the world. By acknowledging and valuing these differences, we create an inclusive space where every child feels they are seen, heard, and understood.
Fostering Acceptance
We believe in training and empowering everyone involved in supporting neurodivergent children to cultivate a deep understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. Our team works diligently to advocate for neurodivergent individuals, encouraging and inspiring all communities to embrace the strengths and perspectives of their autistic and neurodivergent peers.
Creating an Environment that Supports Individual Needs
Understanding the needs of all children is crucial for providing safe and effective therapy. At Thinker's Theatre, we prioritise creating an environment that accommodates and supports these needs to the best of our ability. By adjusting the surroundings and adapting activities, we ensure that each child feels comfortable and supported to engage.
Nurturing Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices
Thinker's Theatre promotes practices that celebrate neurodiversity and reject any form of ableism. We actively seek to learn about and understand the various social communication styles present within our community. By doing so, we create a safe and supportive space where children can explore their unique ways of interacting without fear of judgement or distress.
Empowering Self-Advocacy and Personal Agency
Rather than focusing on training neurodivergent children in neurotypical social skills, we prioritise empowering them to embrace their own identities and communicate in ways that feel authentic to them. Thinker's Theatre encourages self-advocacy and personal agency, allowing children to assert their needs, make choices, and take ownership of their personal growth.
Collaborative Aspirations
We believe in co-producing therapy goals with our Thinker’s and their families. By involving children and their families in the process of aspirational aims, we foster a sense of ownership and promote self-determination. This approach ensures that therapy play and processes align with each child's unique aspirations, progress points, and support their overall development.
Strength-Based Clinical Insights and Reporting
At Thinker's Theatre, we provide clinical insights and reporting (as needed) that are respectful, empathetic, and strength-based. We recognise and highlight the unique strengths and talents of each Thinker - using identity-first language that affirms their individuality and agency.
Cultivating Connection and Friendship
The power of connection and friendship is undeniable. Thinker's Theatre provides a nurturing space for children to form genuine connections with their peers. By removing impractical and unreasonable expectations and fostering an inclusive and supportive community, we aim to offer and create an environment where friendships can flourish.
Encouraging Creativity and Play
Play and creativity are essential for growth and self-expression – yay, at all ages! Thinker's Theatre taps into the natural curiosity and imagination of children, applying play-based methods to inspire learning and connections. Through imaginative scenarios and interactive games, we encourage a space where creativity thrives, and new possibilities emerge.
A special dedication for the beginning moments of Thinker's Theatre and the support to get started, with professional appreciation to Dr. Radhika Tanksale of Social Space Community, Prof. Tony Attwood & Dr. Michelle Garnett of Attwood & Garnett Events, Luke Blackwood of Full Potential Psychology, and Dr. Louise Ford of Brighter Futures Clinic:
“Thank you all so much for your creative sparks, generous hearts, hosting workshops, and continued support of Thinker’s Theatre to support others!”