The Power of Play Schemas with Ange Anderson

Play is often the first thing to disappear as children move through school – but for many neurodivergent children, it may be the most powerful learning tool we have.

Ange Anderson, Therapeutic SEND Advisor, joins Dale to discuss how play schemas can help adults better understand behaviour, communication, and wellbeing.

Together, Dale and Ange explore:

– Why play-based learning is so often misunderstood or abandoned too early.

– What schemas are, and how recognising them can completely reframe what looks like challenging behaviour.

– Why following a child's lead – rather than directing them – can unlock engagement that more traditional approaches simply can't reach.

"Play isn't just what children do – it's how they tell us who they are."

— Ange Anderson

About Ange Anderson Ange Anderson is a former specialist school head, SEND advisor and author specialising in therapeutic, sensory and play-based approaches for neurodivergent children and young people. Her work focuses on helping professionals and families better understand behaviour, communication, wellbeing and learning through practical, relationship-based approaches.

Ange is particularly passionate about purposeful play, sensory profiling, schemas, therapeutic interventions and the rights of children with complex needs and PMLD to lifelong learning. She is known for translating theory into realistic, meaningful strategies that busy staff teams and families can use in everyday practice.

Alongside her writing – books, articles and research papers – and training, Ange delivers school training days, conference talks and online resources across the UK. Her work combines professional expertise with warmth, creativity and a strong belief that children learn best when they feel safe, understood and engaged.

Ange Anderson Amazon Author Page