Child Play Specialist Certification Program
Become a Certified Child Play Specialist and master the art of using play to nurture children's emotional, social, and cognitive development (ages 0-12 yrs)
Offered Exclusively by Modern Parenthood Institute
Self Paced Program Available December 2025
〰️
Self Paced Program Available December 2025 〰️
This comprehensive training transforms passionate individuals into respected professionals who can make a profound difference in children's lives, whether in private practice, schools, community settings, or integrated with other holistic modalities.
What if your professional practice was not just financially rewarding but deeply fulfilling – where you witnessed transformative moments as children overcome obstacles through the power of purposeful play?
And what if you could achieve all this while maintaining clear professional boundaries, working collaboratively with other specialists, and becoming known as the go-to expert in your community for developmental play?
This isn't just wishful thinking. This is exactly what our graduates experience after completing the Child Play Specialist Certification.
Transform Children's Lives Through the Power of Play
Imagine a Different Way to Support Children...
In today's rapidly changing world, children need specialized support more than ever. Yet most approaches focus on managing behaviors rather than nurturing development.
What if there was a better way?
What if you could walk into a room and immediately know exactly how to connect with a struggling child through their natural language of play?
What if parents sought you out because you offered something different – an approach that actually addressed the root causes of children's challenges instead of just managing symptoms?
What if you possessed a unique toolkit of play-based techniques that could help children:
Process big emotions they can't yet verbalize
Overcome developmental hurdles with joy rather than frustration
Build the neural pathways essential for learning and emotional regulation
Develop resilience and confidence that carries forward into adulthood
The Child Play Specialist Certification Program empowers you with research-backed, holistic skills to guide children through their most formative years using the universal language they already speak: play.
A Holistic Approach for Modern Practitioners
What is a Child Play Specialist?
A Child Play Specialist is a trained professional who uses evidence-based play techniques to support children's emotional, social, and cognitive development. Unlike traditional play therapists who work in clinical settings, Child Play Specialists operate in educational, community, and holistic environments to:
🧩 Create structured play experiences that address specific developmental needs
🧩 Support children through life transitions using play-based approaches
🧩 Help children process emotions and build resilience through guided play
🧩 Educate parents and caregivers about the developmental importance of play
🧩 Design play environments that optimize growth and learning
Child Play Specialists understand the science behind developmental play and can apply this knowledge to support children ages 0-12 in expressing themselves, building coping skills, and thriving through life's challenges—all without entering the realm of therapy or medical treatment.
This role bridges the gap between casual play facilitation and clinical play therapy, providing a crucial supportive service for children who need specialized play experiences but not clinical intervention.
Become the Expert Children Need in a World That's Forgotten How to Play
The Problem We're Solving Together
In today's overstimulated world, children face unprecedented challenges backed by alarming statistics:
Digital overload: Children ages 8-12 now spend an average of 5-7 hours daily on screens, reducing crucial sensory play experiences by 50% compared to previous generations
Rising mental health concerns: 1 in 6 children ages 2-8 now has a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder, with anxiety rates increasing 20% since 2007
Developmental impacts: 1 in 44 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, while ADHD affects nearly 10% of all children – both conditions that respond positively to specialized play interventions
Nature deficit: The average American child spends less than 7 minutes daily in unstructured outdoor play, compared to 7 hours daily on electronic devices
Educational pressure: Kindergarten academic expectations have risen dramatically, with 80% of classrooms spending 2-3 hours daily on academics versus 25 minutes on play-based learning
Parental uncertainty: 67% of parents report feeling "often overwhelmed" about supporting their child's development, with 82% wishing they had more knowledge about developmental play
Yet most child development programs focus solely on academics or behavior management, missing the profound developmental power of purposeful play. Research shows that guided developmental play can improve cognitive outcomes by up to 30% while reducing behavioral challenges by 45%.
Designed Specifically For:
This professional certification is perfect for:
Educators & Early Childhood Specialists seeking advanced play-based techniques
Holistic Practitioners expanding their toolkit for working with children
Sleep Consultants integrating play into sensory regulation support
Child Coaches wanting evidence-based developmental approaches
OT/PT/SLP Professionals adding complementary play methods
Parent Educators teaching developmental play techniques
Note: This is a professional certification program best suited for those already working with children in some capacity.
A Unique Solution: The Child Play Specialist Method
The Child Play Specialist Certification equips you with a complete system to harness play's transformative power - supporting children's natural development while addressing modern challenges.
Our systematic approach integrates:
1
Neurodevelopmental science with age-appropriate play techniques
2
Sensory integration principles supporting emotional regulation
3
Trauma-informed practices for children with complex needs
4
Child-led play facilitation that builds resilience and confidence
5
Practical tools you can implement immediately with children ages 0-12
6
Parent education frameworks that empower families to extend developmental support at home
Unlike generic play courses, our Child Play Specialist Certification provides a structured methodology that produces consistent, measurable results while honoring each child's unique developmental journey.
What You Get When You Enroll
A step-by-step curriculum designed for real-world success
Downloadable resources & workbooks to support your learning
A supportive community of like-minded professionals
Engaging lessons from industry experts
Guidance on adding to your business so you can hit the ground running
Official certification as a CranioEase Method Practitioner
National Directory Listing
But that’s not all. We’re committed to setting you up for long-term success!
Complete Online Learning Experience
Our comprehensive self-paced digital program provides everything you need to master the Child Play Specialist protocol from anywhere in the world, on your own schedule:
The Online Certification Includes:
Video Lectures/Demonstrations of techniques & theory
Downloadable Learning Materials for reference during and after training
Interactive Assessments to ensure comprehension and proficiency
Done-For-You Templates - Assessment tools, session plans, and parent handouts
Lifetime Access to all course materials and future updates
Professional Certificate upon successful completion
Business Building Materials - Marketing materials to attract clients
Same Credential as our in-person training graduates
Digital Badge - For your website and marketing materials
Comprehensive Online Curriculum
Our self-paced program teaches you the complete Child Play Specialist protocol, organized into clear modules
What You'll Learn in This Comprehensive Program
Module 1: Understanding Play in Child Development
Master the science and theory behind developmental play, including:
The neurological benefits of different play types
How play builds critical neural pathways for lifelong learning
The evolutionary purpose of play and its role in human development
Module 2: Child Development & Play Across Ages
Gain in-depth understanding of:
Age-specific play needs from infancy through childhood (0-12 years)
Developmental milestones and how to support them through play
Identifying potential developmental concerns through play observation
Module 3: Child-Centered Play Techniques
Learn powerful facilitation skills:
Non-directive play approaches that empower children
Setting developmental goals while honoring the child's lead
Advanced observation techniques to understand play behaviors
Module 4: Play Strategies for Specific Needs
Develop specialized skills for:
Supporting neurodivergent children through sensory-rich play
Creating trauma-informed play experiences that foster safety and healing
Using play to help children process complex emotions
Module 5: Facilitating Group Play and Social Skills
Master techniques for:
Creating powerful group play experiences that build social intelligence
Managing challenging dynamics in play groups
Fostering leadership and cooperation through structured play activities
Module 6: Designing Play Spaces and Tools
Learn to create optimal environments:
Design principles for therapeutic play spaces
Selecting and creating powerful play materials
Adapting everyday spaces for meaningful play experiences
Module 7: Holistic Approaches to Play
Expand your toolkit with:
Nature-based play interventions that deepen connection
Mindfulness techniques integrated into play experiences
Creative arts approaches for emotional expression
Module 8: Ethical Practices and Parental Involvement
Ensure professional excellence through:
Ethical guidelines for play specialists
Strategies for engaging parents as partners
Building sustainable play practices in diverse settings
Capstone Module: Practicum and Case Studies
Demonstrate mastery through:
Reviewed play sessions (video submission required)
Case study analysis and planning
Development of your professional portfolio
Program Details and Format
Our self-paced online format allows you to:
Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule
Access course materials from anywhere in the world
Revisit modules and resources as needed
Connect with instructors and peers through our private community
Each module includes:
In-depth video lessons with expert instructors
Comprehensive reading materials and resources
Practical exercises to apply your learning
Self-assessment quizzes to check understanding
Reflection prompts to deepen integration
Certification requirements:
Completion of all course modules
Submission of your play-based project and reflection
Passing the final knowledge assessment
Demonstration of skills through video assessment
Scope of Practice: What Child Play Specialists Do and Don't Do
Child Play Specialists DO:
✓ Assess children's play patterns and developmental stages
✓ Design and facilitate developmentally supportive play experiences
✓ Create safe emotional spaces for children to express themselves through play
✓ Support sensory integration and regulation through targeted play activities
✓ Guide parents in understanding their child's developmental needs
✓ Collaborate with other professionals in a child's support team
✓ Work in various settings including schools, community centers, and private practice
✓ Provide preventative and supportive play-based approaches
Child Play Specialists DO NOT:
✗ Diagnose medical or psychological conditions
✗ Provide therapy or treatment for specific disorders
✗ Replace the need for occupational, physical, or speech therapy
✗ Prescribe medications or medical interventions
✗ Conduct psychological assessments or evaluations
✗ Claim to "cure" developmental challenges
✗ Work outside their scope of training and certification
This certification provides complementary skills that enhance your existing professional practice while maintaining clear ethical boundaries.
The Process: How It Works
1
Enroll & Access Your Training
Jump into our interactive, easy-to-follow lessons that fit into YOUR schedule.
We’ve made this simple and stress-free so you can dive in, learn at your own pace, and start making an impact ASAP.
2
Develop Your Skills
Master the tools, strategies, and coaching techniques that will set you apart.
3
Get Certified & Start Supporting
Graduate with confidence and start building your business right away!
This is a flexible, go-at-your-own-pace program, so you can complete it while balancing work, family, or whatever else life throws your way.
Learn From an Industry Leader: Miss Gigi
Gloria "Miss Gigi" Young
Founder of Modern Parenthood Institute
Gloria brings 15+ years of experience as an infant and pediatric specialist and professional educator. She developed the SomaEase™ Method specifically to address the gap between basic infant care and licensed therapeutic approaches.
Professional Credentials:
Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
Integrative Parent Coach
Degree in Psychology
Current Doctoral Student in Holistic Therapy & Counseling
Board-Certified Craniosacral Therapist
Board-Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Practitioner
Educator & Founder of multiple newborn and postpartum training programs
Owner of 2 Postpartum Agencies: Boston Harbor Baby & Magnolia Baby Company
Founder of New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy
"In a world that's increasingly focused on academic achievement and technological advancement, we've forgotten something fundamental: play isn't just what children do—it's how they develop the neural pathways that shape their entire future. At Modern Parenthood Institute, we're reclaiming play as a powerful developmental tool. When we understand how to facilitate purposeful play experiences, we don't just create happier childhoods—we build stronger foundations for resilient, confident adults. This certification isn't just about teaching play techniques; it's about transforming how we support children during their most critical developmental windows."
Transform Both Your Impact and Your Practice
The Child Play Specialist Certification elevates your professional capacity in two critical ways:
Professional Transformation:
Develop the expertise to help children other approaches can't reach
Create breakthrough moments for children struggling with emotional regulation
Establish yourself as the developmental play authority in your community
Guide parents through developmental challenges with confidence and clarity
Bridge the gap between behavioral approaches and developmental needs
Build a toolkit that adapts to each child's unique sensory profile and needs
Business Transformation:
Create a signature approach that sets you apart from conventional practitioners
Develop premium service offerings that command professional-level compensation
Generate word-of-mouth referrals through visible, meaningful results
Increase client retention through a deeper understanding of developmental needs
Expand your practice into new professional networks and referral sources
Diversify your revenue streams with individual sessions, groups, and parent education
Exclusive Benefits for MPI Students:
Lifetime access to the course—revisit the material anytime
Private Facebook group exclusively for MPI students
Official certification badge to proudly display on your website
Opportunities for live Q&A sessions with industry experts
Exclusive discounts on MPI-hosted conferences and events
And more!
Is This for You?
Let’s be real: If you’ve read this far, you already KNOW this is calling you.
This program was created for people just like you—people who are ready to take their passion for helping families and turn it into a career that changes lives.
Maybe you’ve been waiting for the “right time.” This is it.
Maybe you’ve doubted if you’re capable. You are.
Maybe you’ve wondered if you can make this a career. You can.
This is your moment. Don’t let it pass you by.
Investment in Your Future as a Child Play Specialist Practitioner
Your journey to becoming a Child Play Specialist Practitioner starts here.
PRE REGISTER NOW! PROGRAM UNLOCKS DECEMBER 1ST, 2025
Pay in Full:
$697 USD (Save 10% when paying in full)
3 Monthly Payments:
$258 USD
6 Monthly Payments:
$129 USD
All payments are non-refundable. Please review our terms and conditions for more details.
Are You Ready to Say YES?
Your future as a certified Child Play Specialist Practitioner is waiting. The freedom. The impact. The fulfillment. It’s all within reach.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.
FAQs
Common Questions About Child Play Specialist Certification
Is this a clinical certification? This is a professional development certification that complements existing credentials. While it teaches powerful developmental techniques, it's not a clinical therapy certification.
How much time will this require? Most specialists complete the certification in 12 weeks, dedicating 3-5 hours per week to learning and practice.
Is there an in-person component? The program certification is entirely online. We will evaluate if students would like in-person training options in the future.
How is this different from play therapy? Our Child Play Specialist approach focuses on developmental support rather than therapeutic intervention. The techniques can be used preventatively and as a complement to therapy when needed.
Will this help me grow my business? Absolutely! The certification includes business-building materials specifically designed to help you attract clients who value developmental play expertise.
Is there support after certification? Yes! You'll have lifetime access to our community of play specialists and continuing education opportunities.
What is Modern Parenthood Institute?
Modern Parenthood Institute (MPI) is a virtual school dedicated to training and certifying professionals in childcare, parenting, and holistic family support. Our programs cover a range of specialties, including pediatric sleep consulting, parent coaching, and newborn care, equipping students with expert knowledge and real-world skills to excel in their careers.
Who can enroll in your programs?
Our programs are open to anyone passionate about supporting families. Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare professional, caregiver, or someone seeking a career change, our courses provide the tools you need for professional success. Must be 18 years old to enroll in any of our programs.
Are your programs accredited?
Yes! Our programs are designed by industry experts and recognized by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP). Upon completing select programs, you can also become a Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, enhancing your credibility and career opportunities.
How long does it take to complete a course?
Our courses are self-paced, so you can study on your schedule. On average, most students complete their certification in about four months, though some finish in as little as 6–12 weeks, while others take longer depending on their availability. The best part? You have lifetime access to the course materials, so you can revisit and review the content whenever needed.
What are the technology requirements?
To access our courses, you’ll need:
A computer, tablet, or smartphone
A stable internet connection
Access to PDF viewers, video streaming, and downloadable materials
What are the program completion requirements?
To successfully complete our certification programs, students must complete all course modules, quizzes, and any required exams. For the Integrative Parent Coach Program, students must also complete a practicum, which includes conducting six 1-hour sessions with six different clients and submitting required session notes for review. To support you, we provide templates and guidance to ensure you meet these requirements with confidence. These standards help you gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience to serve your clients effectively.
How do I access the course materials?
Once you enroll, you’ll receive login credentials to our online learning platform, where you can access all course materials, including video lessons, workbooks, and resources. You can study at your own pace, anytime and anywhere, from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Can I work while taking your courses?
Absolutely! Our programs are designed for flexibility, allowing you to balance work, family, and studies. Whether you learn full-time or part-time, you can progress at your own pace.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! We offer flexible payment plans to make our programs accessible.
What support do you offer to students?
We are committed to your success! As a student, you’ll receive:
Expert mentorship & instructor support
Access to a private student Facebook group for networking & collaboration
Live Q&A sessions for additional guidance
Career support & business-building resources post-certification
Do you offer refunds?
Due to the digital nature of our courses and immediate access to content, we do not offer refunds. If you have a dispute or concern, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
How do I know if your programs are right for me?
Our courses are perfect for individuals who are passionate about supporting families and want to build a meaningful career in childcare, coaching, or holistic family wellness. If you’re unsure, you can schedule a discovery call with our founder, Miss Gigi, to discuss your goals and see if MPI is the right fit for you.
What additional benefits do I receive as a student?
When you enroll in MPI, you’ll also gain:
A professional certification badge to display on your website & marketing materials
Lifetime access to course materials for continued learning
Discounts on MPI-hosted conferences & events
Opportunities for networking & mentorship
Still have questions? Contact us today!
