About Us

The Treasure Basket Association is inspired by Elinor Goldschmied’s impactful work in early childhood education and her development of the Treasure Basket. Our approach fosters sensory exploration and promotes mental, emotional, and physical development in children through play and creative arts. Regular engagement enhances creativity, self-confidence, and overall well-being for all age groups.

Meet Our Treasured Team

At the heart of the Treasure Basket Association lies a dynamic team committed to nurturing children’s development. Together, we strive to empower caregivers, educators, and communities to create enriching supportive environments for young children. With a shared commitment to excellence and innovation, the Treasure Basket Association team is poised to continue making a profound difference in the lives of children and families everywhere.

As an accredited Play Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at Darling BUDS of Play, I’m dedicated to helping all children reach their potential, regardless of circumstances. With extensive experience in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, I focus on overcoming barriers to emotional, social, and academic success. Motivated by witnessing the negative impact of funding cuts on children’s well-being, I founded The Treasure Basket Association, a non-profit prioritising emotional well-being for children and families over financial constraints.

I am a skilled fundraiser with a passion for supporting children’s emotional health. With extensive experience as a Therapeutic Play Practitioner and Outreach Befriending Playworker in inner London from 2006 to 2015, I hold a Level 5 Diploma in Counselling. My goal is to help The Treasure Basket Association grow sustainably, ensuring more children benefit from their work indefinitely. I’ve seen firsthand how Play Therapy Practice can transform lives, and I’m eager to contribute to this mission.

I’m currently completing my Post Graduate Certificate in Therapeutic Play with PTUK and plan to pursue the Diploma in 2024. Over the past decade, I’ve gained diverse experience in various schools and nurseries across Sussex. It was during this time that I realised the importance of children being emotionally ready to learn. Recognising my limitations in the educational setting, I aspired to become a play therapist to offer more tailored support to children. I’m particularly drawn to helping those who struggle in the classroom environment.

I was initially a nanny in New Zealand, but expanded my career to Australia and then London. In 2019, I trained as a therapeutic play practitioner with PTUK. Despite Covid disruptions, I completed my training in 2021 and now work in schools, assisting up to 5 children weekly with various issues. Currently I am pursuing a Play Therapy diploma, and I passionately advocate for play therapy’s importance in schools due to its positive impact on children.

After retiring as Finance Director of a construction company, I joined The Treasure Basket Association in January 2023 as a volunteer Treasurer. With 40 years of commercial experience, I quickly transitioned into a Trustee role, bringing my business acumen to the team. The charity, though small, is growing and making a vital contribution to society. Collaborating closely with key players and Trustees, we focus on developing income streams while staying true to our cause. I’m proud to be part of this team and excited to see its evolution.

‘Therapy can provide a child with the opportunity to learn to self-regulate their behaviour and manage their world with confidence and belief.’

Why The Treasure Basket Association?

Early intervention

We provide therapy for children and families before they reach crisis point, preventing the development of detrimental coping strategies.

Holistic support

Our organisation addresses the complex challenges of trauma, deprivation, and adverse childhood experiences, focusing on both short and long-term needs.

Confidence building

Through therapy, families gain new tools to manage conflict and make necessary changes, fostering growth and confidence.

Promoting well-being

By utilising play and creative arts, we advocate for good mental health, promoting development across various domains including creativity, self-confidence, and emotional well-being.