empowering kids
through Imagination
Neuroinclusive Drama Therapy and Creative Arts for kids
February 18th
8pm or 9pm
building confidence and
Social-Emotional skills through collaboration, imagination, and fun.
At ACT2Connect, we know that children learn best through creativity and play. That is why we don't just sit and talk; we get up, move, sing, create, and play together.
Through playful drama therapy informed activities, such as improvisation, role-playing, and imaginative exploration, infused with music, movement, art, and mindfulness, children develop emotional regulation and problem-solving skills, improve communication, and form meaningful friendships.
Our PROGRAMS
At ACT2Connect, we offer 8-week neuroinclusive, confidence building social-emotional programs for children who may benefit from extra support in building confidence and social skills, all through, fun, creative, and play-based experiences.
playful explorers
Designed for Pre-k & Kindergarten children
In this playful, imaginative group, children will:
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Explore and express emotions through stories, characters, and imaginative play
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Build confidence and friendship skills through puppet role-play, cooperative games, and creative activities
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Practice calming their bodies and managing big feelings through movement, music, and mindfulness
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Strengthen listening skills, focus, and cooperation through interactive games, following routines, and expressive arts
imagination heroes
Designed for Early Elementary children
In this creative, interactive group, kids will:
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Build self-confidence while discovering their unique strengths
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Strengthen problem-solving skills and develop friendships through imaginative role-play and cooperative games
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Grow emotional awareness and practice self-regulation through theatre games and mindfulness activities
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Improve focus and following directions while working together in creative, hands-on experiences
creative communicators
Designed for Tweens and young teens
In this collaborative, play-based group, tweens will:
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Practice communication and teamwork through exciting interactive games and group challenges
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Build confidence and spontaneity through improvisation and collaborative play.
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Develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills using art, music, storytelling, and mindfulness
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Strengthen problem-solving strategies and peer and family relationships through acting, interactive games, and social role-play.
*ACT2Connect is a warm, affirming space where every child's uniqueness, imagination, and strengths are celebrated, so kids leave feeling more confident, connected, and empowered.
Interested in having me facilitate groups at your center or school or want to learn more? Please contact me at karen@act2connect.com
Next sessions begin
March 2026
Accepting Applications Now!
At ACT2Connect, we believe the relationship between parent and child is foundational to growth and emotional well-being. To provide extra support and strengthen this connection, our program also includes:
Take Home Activities & Games
We provide weekly newsletters with simple take-home activities and games that families can enjoy together.
Parent Play Day
We host a Parent Play Day during the last session, inviting caregivers to join the group to play, create, and connect alongside their child; extending the learning and creativity beyond the session.
Our Philosophy
ACT2Connect was created from the belief that every child deserves to be honored for who they are, not just for their strengths or skills. While we practice important social-emotional skills, the work is never about changing a child. It’s about helping them recognize how incredible they already are, develop confidence in their own abilities, and feel more secure at school, at home, with peers, and in life.
At ACT2Connect, both children and parents are met with care, understanding, and the reminder that they are already worthy, capable, and enough.
Meet Karen!
I became a drama therapist because I know what it feels like to be a child who struggles. Growing up, school and friendships didn’t always come easily to me, and I often felt different and unsure of myself. It was through finding creative spaces, dance class, voice lessons, and in theatre that I finally felt seen, safe, and free to be myself. Those experiences led me to pursue drama therapy and focus on how I could offer other children the same kind of creative spaces where they can feel confident, empowered, and explore who they are. As a parent myself, I understand firsthand how hard it can be to stay calm and regulated when your child is struggling. I value parents as the experts of their children and see my role as walking alongside families with compassion and respect. Through parent involvement, play-based tools, and ongoing support, I aim to empower parents with skills for connection, co-regulation, and confidence; while honoring the powerful bond between parent and child.
“It is in playing and only in playing that the individual child or adult is able to be creative and to use the whole personality, and it is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self.”
— D.W. Winnicott
I am a Provisionally Registered Drama Therapist (P-RDT) credentialed through the North American Drama Therapy Association and based in Florida, with over 20 years of experience working with children and teens as a teacher, tutor, theatre director, drama therapist and homeschool mom. My approach is warm, nurturing, and inclusive, and I am passionate about helping children feel confident and empowered. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University and a Master of Arts in Drama Therapy from New York University, with specialized training in trauma and ADHD. Through drama therapy and the creative arts, I support neurodivergent children and teens, as well as those navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and social challenges. I have worked in schools, clinical and community settings, outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, and online therapeutic groups. I have also volunteered as an advocate for children and teens, including serving as a Guardian ad Litem and facilitating groups for grieving children through the Den for Grieving Kids. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, my two adult children (ages 19 and 21), and our dog Sophie and cat Cooper. I continue to love musical theatre, dance, and singing, and enjoy playing board games with family and friends.
lets connect!
Interested in having me facilitate a group at your school or center, enrolling your child, or learning more about ACT2Connect.
Please contact me at karen@act2connect.com
