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Author: Lindsay Teitelbaum

Introducing SPL’s Internship Program!

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An experiential learning opportunity to develop skills no school or clinic can provide. Learn more and see if we have what you’re looking for! Inclusion is For Everyone We believe inclusion can be learned by everyone. Inclusion isn’t something reserved for therapists, educators, or neurotypical people. We have seen that everyone can learn how to […]

What to Do If Your Child Didnā€™t Qualify for ESY (Bay Area Alternatives)

An adult smiling with bubbles coming down, two children looking at the bubbles.

Didnā€™t qualify for Extended School Year? Here are real options to prevent summer regression in the Bay Area. What Is ESY? For many families of children with disabilities, the end of the school year brings a mix of excitement and anxiety. While summer can provide a welcome and often much-needed break from the demands of […]

Why Kids Act Out More in Spring (Sensory + Nervous System Explained)

young child messy on the floor surrounded by paint

Seeing sudden behavior changes this spring? Learn how seasonal shifts impact your childā€™s nervous systemā€”and what helps. The Hidden Reasons Many parents notice a shift in their child come spring; more impulsivity, shorter fuses, meltdowns that seem to come out of nowhere. A kid who was steady in February is suddenly unraveling over a sock […]

Gray Area Rules: How SPL TRULY creates inclusive play in the San Francisco Bay Area

Two children standing on sensory tiles on the floor

When parents in the San Francisco Bay Area search for programming that is inclusive, play-based, or neurodivergent-friendly, theyā€™re often looking for something deeper. Theyā€™re looking for belonging. At Spirited Play Labs, we serve families across the San Francisco Bay Area who want their children to grow in an environment that mirrors the real world; diverse, […]

An Intro to Our Play Coaches

Two adults sitting with a child who's holding a book

Not a teacher, not a therapist, not a student…so who are Play Coaches? Spirited Play Labs has redefined who can create meaningful social support through its’ Play Coaching model! At SPL, we hire people who desire a career serving disabled children AND who want a lifestyle that is less about paperwork and following someone else’s […]

PDA: Transform your childā€™s overwhelming behavior into an opportunity for connection!

3 young boys playing with silks in the wind tunnel

Understanding the PDA Profile PDA is a neurodivergent profile that is often associated with Autism. Itā€™s short for Pathological Demand Avoidance or Persistent Drive for Autonomy. Before identifying PDA in their child, parents describe their child as highly reactive when dysregulated, emotionally intense, and that they often feel they are walking on eggshells around their […]

Spirited Play Labs’ Glossary of Terms!

An adult watching children climb on soft play toys

What’s the difference between neurodiverse and neurodivergent? Learn more from our SPL staff about the current terms you may be hearing in our culture! NEUROSPICY (adjective): Neurospicy is used to describe individuals whose brain functions differently from what is considered ā€œtypicalā€. It serves as a less clinical way to refer to conditions like autism, ADHD, […]

Site Manager

The Site Manager leads daily operations at their assigned location, creating exceptional experiences for members while managing staff and facilities. This role serves as the on-site leader responsible for implementing organizational standards while addressing immediate needs and opportunities.

Reports to: Fractional Director of Operations

Key Responsibilities:

Staff Leadership & Development
  • Supervise and coordinate daily activities of site staff
  • Maintain staff schedules for the location
  • Provide real-time coaching and support to team members while relying on SPL philosophy and culture
  • Foster a positive, collaborative team culture
  • Communicate operational updates and requirements to onsite staff
  • Act as liaison between direct care staff (those who work on the floor daily) and management team to ensure needs of direct care staff are being reflected in management decisions in a timely manner using the agreed-upon communication methods
  • Provide regular feedback to staff about job performance and complete bi-annual performance reviews as it relates to SPL Handbook Policies
  • Observe & provide feedback for hiring of new staff members
  • Screen & onboard volunteers
  • Ensure exceptional service standards for all members
  • Address member questions, concerns, and feedback promptly
  • Oversee check-in/check-out processes
  • Create a welcoming, inclusive environment
  • Complete all first time visits to introduce new people to SPL and provide information about agreements and membership tiers
  • Send monthly emails to site specific members for updates & connections
  • Utilize Circle app for upcoming events and announcements
  • Contacting any member families in need of additional support or follow-up for repair after breakdown
  • Maintain facility standards for safety, cleanliness, and functionality
  • Conduct daily facility inspections and report back any outstanding issues to management; schedule staff for facility upgrades when possible outside of work hours
  • Coordinate basic maintenance and repairs
  • Manage local inventory and supplies
  • Implement safety and emergency procedures
  • Work with Program Director to update physical space / items quarterly
  • Communicate with landlord/property management when any issues arise
  • Maintain professional communication with members and staff by managing your locationā€™s email account and telephone system daily
  • Maintain accurate attendance and participation records for both staff and members
  • Document member concerns and resolutions via written record
  • Book and properly schedule parties, site rentals, or additional speciality services including Play Coaching appointments and summer camp
  • Complete daily and weekly operational reports
  • Manage memberā€™s contracts, which includes billing and interfacing with partner organizations this includes handling pauses or cancellations via email (never just in person or phone)
  • Manage administrative aspects of the play coaching role: schedule sessions through POS system, reschedule sessions as needed, stay in active communication with members, send introductory packets via email to new members
  • Rely on policies and procedures laid out via manuals and handbooks from Executive Team
  • Monthly RCEB BillingĀ 
  • Quarterly list of who needs to be cancelled sent to Mikaela *RCEB families whoā€™ve not visited in 3 months or more & did not notify us
  • Maintain detailed notes using Mindbody about each member family, including safety concerns, names/ages of children, and special information to know
  • Serve as primary on-site point of contact
  • Maintain clear communication with Executive Assistant
  • Provide regular updates to Director of Operations via email
  • Coordinate with other Site Managers on cross-location matters
  • Interface with vendors for basic service needs
  • Escalate significant issues appropriately
  • Primary work location at assigned site
  • Full-Time RoleĀ 
  • May require some evening and weekend availability
  • Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, light lifting, and mobility throughout facility
  • Fast-paced environment requiring adaptability and quick decision-making

Site Supervisor

The Site Supervisor is an assistant leadership role responsible for ensuring the smooth weekday morning and weekend operations of our play space. This includes supporting staff, engaging with families, handling administrative tasks, and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for neurodivergent and disabled children.

Reports to: Site Manager

Key Responsibilities:

Member Experience
  • Greet and warmly welcome families upon arrival
  • Complete check-in/check-out procedures accurately and efficiently
  • Answer questions about programs, memberships, and facility features
  • Address basic member concerns promptly or escalate to Site Manager when appropriate
  • Create an inclusive, supportive atmosphere for all children and families
  • Engage with children in an age-appropriate, encouraging manner
  • Monitor the play area continuously to ensure safety and appropriate behavior
  • Enforce safety rules consistently while maintaining a positive atmosphere
  • Respond quickly to any conflicts or safety concerns
  • Follow all emergency protocols when necessary
  • Document any incidents according to established procedures
  • Reset and sanitize toys and equipment between sessions following cleaning protocols
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of all play areas throughout shifts
  • Conduct regular inventory checks of supplies and materials
  • Assist with opening and closing procedures
  • Identify and report any maintenance or safety issues
  • Maintain accurate attendance and membership records
  • Process basic transactions as needed
  • Assist with program registration when required
  • Organize and distribute program materials
  • Support special events and programs as needed
  • Primary work location at assigned site
  • Part-Time RoleĀ 
  • Weekend and morning availability required
  • Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, frequent bending and lifting of up to 25 pounds
  • Fast-paced environment requiring high energy and adaptability
  • Exposure to typical noise levels associated with children’s play environments

Play Coach

Play Coaches provide structured, therapeutic play sessions tailored to the individual needs of each child. They create a consistent and supportive relationship while using specialized play techniques to support social-emotional growth and developmental goals. Play Coaches serve as the primary therapeutic relationship for children in their care.

Reports to: Site Manager for scheduling and day-to-day operations; Program Director for program quality and professional development

Key Responsibilities:

Session Facilitation
  • Lead 1:1 or small group play sessions using evidence-based therapeutic play techniques
  • Create individualized play plans based on each child’s unique needs and goals
  • Implement appropriate interventions and activities aligned with program methodology
  • Adapt session approach based on child’s responses and developmental progress
  • Maintain appropriate boundaries and professional relationship standards
  • Foster a safe, nurturing environment that promotes growth and exploration
  • Conduct initial and ongoing informal assessments of child development and needs
  • Observe and document detailed notes on child behavior, play themes, and progress
  • Track developmental milestones and areas for growth
  • Maintain comprehensive and confidential session records
  • Complete all documentation within required timeframes
  • Communicate effectively with caregivers about session highlights and child progress
  • Provide appropriate feedback and guidance to support families
  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with families
  • Collaborate with caregivers to ensure consistency between sessions and home
  • Address caregiver questions and concerns or escalate as appropriate
  • Participate in regular supervision and coaching sessions
  • Engage in ongoing training and professional development
  • Incorporate feedback into practice
  • Stay current on play therapy approaches and child development research
  • Collaborate with other Play Coaches to share best practices
  • Primary work location at assigned site
  • Part-Time or Full-Time Jobs availableĀ 
  • May require evening and weekend availability to accommodate families’ schedules
  • Physical requirements include sitting on floor, light lifting, and active play with children
  • Emotional resilience required for working with children experiencing challenges
  • Schedule may vary based on client needs

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