Introduction
Hello! Welcome to PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu, where healing begins through the language of play.
Founded by Tanuja Nair, a passionate and certified Child Life Therapist with years of hands-on experience, this space was born from her deep belief in the power of play and connection to comfort and empower children and families through life’s toughest moments, thereby improving overall mental wellbeing.
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About Tanu…
Tanuja (Tanu) brings over 20 years of experience supporting children and families across early childhood education, special needs, and paediatric healthcare. Her work is rooted in therapeutic play, emotional empowerment and culturally responsive care.
From classrooms to hospitals, Tanu has championed child well-being through every stage of development and challenge. Now, through PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu, she offers specialised support, mentorship, and partnerships that make a meaningful difference.
education
Master of Counselling, Australia
Specialist Diploma in Teaching and Supporting Children with Special Needs, Singapore
Graduate Certificate in Education (Special Education), Australia
Bachelor of Social Science (Children and Family Studies), Australia
Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Leadership and Teaching), Singapore
credentials
Certified Child Life Specialist [CCLS], USA
Certified Professional Life Coach, USA
ACLP Certified, Singapore
Psychological First Aid [PFA] for Children Trainer, Singapore
Certified Children’s Relaxation Teacher [CCRT], USA
Trauma- Informed Yoga Educator for Children & Youth, USA
Certified Paediatric Massage Therapist [CPMT], USA
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES
12th Biennial Meeting of Indonesia Society of Pediatric Anesthesia and Critical Care (ISPACC), Surabaya (Indonesia), 2026
“The Role of Child Life in Pediatric Procedural Pain Management”
Asian Society of Paediatric Anaesthesiologists (ASPA)- Pediatric Pain Special Interest Group (PPSIG), Singapore, 2026, 2025
“Non-Pharmacological Approach to Pain Management”
International Symposium of Paediatric Pain (ISPP), Glasgow (UK), 2025
“Child Life Specialists: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Care- The Role, Impact and Resilience Behind the Work”
Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore, 2026, 2025
“The Role of Play in Hospital & Children's Development”
APSN Tanglin School, Singapore, 2025
“Psychological First Aid (PFA) for Children”
Advent Links-SAUC Education Centre, Singapore, 2024
“Parent-Child Workshop: Coping with Children with Special Needs”
Singapore Museum, Singapore, 2023
“Play is Serious Work- Understanding the Importance of Play”
Asian Society of Paediatric Anaesthesiologists (ASPA), Seoul, 2023
“A Non-Pharmacological Approach to Post-Operative Pain Management in Children with Multiple Traumatic Injuries”
PUBLICATIONS
Lee. P., Mun, S., Nair T. & Tewani, K.
“Art Therapy in Palliative Gynaecological Oncology: Clinical Value in Acute Care”
Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, 2026
Wong, K., Magee, W., Mun, S., Sim, J., Nair, T. & Tewani, K.
“The Value of Inpatient Music Therapy for Gynae-oncology Palliative Care in Singapore: A Qualitative Study”
Frontiers, 2025
Nair, T. and Abdullah, S.
“Preparing a Child for A Heart Operation- A social story and prepatory activity book to prepare children for an upcoming heart operation”
National Library, Singapore, 2023
Nair, T., Choo, C., Abdullah, N.S., Lee, S., Teo, L., Chen, Y., Nah, S.A. & Chiang, L.W.
“Home Initiated Programme to Prepare for Operation (HIPPO): Evaluating the Effect of an Animation Video on Peri-Operative Anxiety in Children”
European Journal of Anaesthesiology, 2020
Nair, T., Wong, K. C., Ang, L., Koh, S. & Lee, P.
“Addressing and Extending Psychosocial Care and Support to Patients and HCWs During COVID-19”
Patient Safety and Quality Healthcare, 2020
Goh, T.Z., Lim, T., Foo, M., Ong, S.Z.A., Nair, T., Kang, Y.Q., Agarwal, P.K. & Sung, M.
“Supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Medical Settings During COVID-19”
Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 2020
Nair, T. & Lee, P.
“Matched Sibling Donor Support Program Expressive Activity Journal”
KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore, 2015
HONOURS
2026 IPSQ Poster Excellence Award-SingHealth Duke-NUS Quality & Innovation Day (QID)
2025 Singapore Health Quality Service Award (SHQSA)Best Team Award (Patient Experience Improvement Category)
2022 National Commendation Medal (COVID-19)
2022 Hospital Management Asia- Gold Award (Community Involvement)
2022 SHQSA Superstar Award (Allied Health)
2018 SingHealth GCEO Excellence Awards: Outstanding Allied Health Professional Award
mission
PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu champions the power of play to create safe and therapeutic spaces where hearts heal, voices rise, and stories unfold.
vision
PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu envisions a world where every child is empowered to thrive, families are supported with strength and compassion, and professionals are inspired to create connected, healing-centred communities.
play speaks by tanu aims to:
Support children, siblings and families through challenging medical journeys with empathy and creativity
Coach parents and caregivers to feel informed, capable, and connected to their child’s needs
Provide therapeutic play-based services to empower children with special needs to thrive
Extend supervision and mentorship to child life students and helping professionals to grow with confidence
Facilitate and build capacity across education and healthcare systems through workshops and training sessions
Services
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Engaging play-based sessions tailored to support children’s emotional, developmental, and coping needs. Play is used as a tool for healing, expression, and resilience building.
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Empowering parents and caregivers with practical tools, emotional guidance, and confidence to support them through their child’s medical and developmental journey.
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Reflective, strength-based supervision and mentorship for child life and allied health professionals.
Lending insight to help sharpen one’s practice, build confidence, and stay grounded in his/her purpose. -
Personalised coaching that nurtures self-awareness, communication, and emotional agility.
For children navigating big feelings and professionals aiming for growth and clarity. -
Partnering with healthcare teams to design and expand impactful child life services.
Providing guidance in creating sustainable, child-centred environments and practices. -
Purposeful and playful holiday sessions designed to engage children and siblings.
PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu is a mobile service delivered in the comfort of the client’s home and/or office space. Virtual consults are also available!
TRAINING and FACILITATION
Frequently asked
Here are some answers to the questions we hear most often from families, students, and professionals. Still wondering about something? Reach out—we’re here to help.
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1) What is a Child Life Specialist, and how can one help my child?
A Child Life Specialist supports children’s emotional and developmental needs during challenges like:illness
hospital visits
procedures
transitions to home and school after an illness/ hospital stay
coping with a diagnosis (theirs or a family member’s)
coping with loss and grief
pain management, etc.
We use therapeutic play and coping tools to help children process, express, and adapt with confidence.
2) At what age can my child start sessions with PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu?
We welcome children from 6 months to 18 years, using developmentally appropriate strategies at every stage.3) What happens during a session?
Each session is tailored to your child’s needs and may include expressive play, sensory work, storytelling, art, and coaching techniques. You’ll also receive some follow-up guidance.4) Does PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu work with children with neurodivergent needs/ concerns?
Yes. We are trained in inclusive care and neurodivergent support. Every child is welcome and celebrated for who they are!5) Can you help with medical anxiety or hospital prep?
Absolutely! We use tools like medical play, role-play, and visual storytelling to help your child feel more prepared and less fearful.6) Can you help with non-medical related concerns?
Yes, we can! Therapeutic play can help to address many concerns such as supporting big feelings like:anxiety
stress
worries
low mood etc.
Feel free to reach out to discuss your concerns and we will gently guide you through it.
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1) Do you offer supervision or mentorship?
Yes—we provide individual and group sessions for students, interns, and professionals in Child Life or allied health who want to grow in reflective, strengths-based practice.2) Can I request training for my school or team?
Definitely! We deliver talks, workshops, and hands-on training on topics like therapeutic play, supporting children in distress, and more.3) Are sessions online or in person?
We offer both in person and on-line sessions via Zoom. This is dependent on the client’s preference. -
1) What makes PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu different from other services?
PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu combines over 20 years of experience in child life, early childhood education, and family-centred care. We blend play, cultural insight, and deep listening in every session.2) Is PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu a therapy clinic?
Not quite. While our sessions are therapeutic, we do not provide psychological diagnoses or clinical therapy. We complement such services with emotional and developmental support.3) Do you work with schools or hospitals?
Yes. We love partnering with organizations to create meaningful, child-focused experiences. Get in touch to explore a collaboration.4) Do you offer holiday programmes/sessions for small groups?
Yes, we do! We offer short term programmes that look at building capacities and enhancing overall mental health wellbeing in children. Drop us an email or message us on WhatsApp to discuss your needs.5) How do I book a session?
Drop us an email or message us on WhatsApp. We’ll guide you to the best fit for your needs.6) What’s your cancellation policy?
We appreciate at least 48 hours’ notice. Cancellations under 48 hours may incur a fee.
❓ Still Have Questions?
We’d love to help!
📧 Email us at:
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UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
June 24 2026
🌈Whay Kids’ Brains Function Differently Today
Many teachers, school leaders, student care teachers and parents are noticing that children today are finding it harder to sit still, stay focused, manage big emotions and stay engaged in class.
In this session, we will share the brain science behind dysregulated students in the digital era and explore how today’s digital environment may be affecting children’s attention, behaviour and regulation. Practical support strategies will also be shared!
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
June 17 & 18 2026
🌈Pediatric pain management
Procedural pain is a common part of healthcare, but how we support children through these experiences can make a meaningful difference.
Held in Surabaya, Indonesia, as part of the 12th Biennial Meeting of the Indonesian Society of Pediatric Anesthesia and Critical Care (ISPACC), this promises to be an insightful, practical and engaging opportunity to learn, practise and rethink how we support children through procedures.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
May 23 2026
🌈Managing screen time
Every family can build a calmer, more connected rhythm with screens. This session supports parents with gentle, realistic strategies that honour children’s needs while restoring peace at home. Through practical tools, relatable examples and developmentally informed guidance, you’ll walk away feeling equipped, confident and ready to make screen time work for your family NOT against it.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
PAST EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
March 16 & 18 2026
🌈 Mighty Me!
Every child carries a Mighty Me inside - brave, curious, and ready to grow. This March holiday workshop invites little ones to explore their feelings, build confidence and practise early friendship skills through the magic of play. Using storytelling, creative activities and gentle body-based calming tools, children learn how to handle big emotions in safe and supportive ways. Mighty Me! continues to nurture emotional awareness, resilience and joy through playful, meaningful experiences.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
March 17 2026
🌈 Sensory buddies: March Special
For children who delight in textures, movement, colours and sounds — or who need extra support to stay calm in busy spaces — this session is thoughtfully designed for them. Led by a Child Life Therapist and Occupational Therapist, your child will be guided through sensory-rich play experiences that nurture confidence, spark curiosity, and strengthen emotional regulation.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
PAST EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
7 febuary 2026
🌈 open house
A gentle space where children learn, grow, and play.
Explore how therapy can feel creative, meaningful, and child led.
Connect with practitioners, ask questions, and experience our approach.
Come as you are - curious parents, caregivers and little ones are welcome.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your child. We have an exciting programme planned just for you!
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
December 3 & 6 2025
🌈 mighty me!
Every child has a Mighty Me within- confident, curious, and full of heart.
This playful holiday workshop helps little ones understand and express their feelings, build confidence, and strengthen early friendship skills.
Through creative play, storytelling, and body-based calming tools, children learn to navigate big emotions in safe and supportive ways.
Mighty Me! nurtures emotional growth, self-awareness and joy- all through the language of play.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
PAST EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
December 10 & 13 2025
🌿team thrive!
Every child carries a quiet strength within and Team Thrive! helps it grow.
In this engaging holiday workshop, children take on creative team challenges that build calm, confidence, and connection.
Through collaborative play and reflective activities, they learn how to stay composed under pressure and solve problems together.
Team Thrive! nurtures resilience, emotional awareness and teamwork skills that last far beyond the holidays.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
December 19 2025
🎄Sensory Buddies: Christmas Special
If your little one loves exploring textures, movement, colours and sounds- or needs a bit more support to feel calm in busy environments- this session is crafted just for them. Brought to you by a Child Life Therapist and Occupational Therapist, we will guide your child through sensory-rich play that builds confidence, curiosity, and emotional regulation.
(click on poster/ contact PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu for more information)
What People Are Saying
“Tanu was so energetic, warm and fun. My kids were completely engaged, and honestly, I found myself joining in and smiling too! If I were a child again, I’d be so happy to have someone like Tanu around.”
-Parent of toddler and pre-schoolers
“My child usually takes some time to warm up to new people, but he connected with Tanu almost straight away. Her gentle and nurturing approach helped him feel comfortable, safe and at ease.”
-Parent of school-goer
“Thank you, Tanu, for such an interesting and meaningful workshop. I learnt so much from your generous sharing. Thank you for being open, honest and warm. I hope to attend another session with you in the future.”
-Professional workshop participant
Ready to forge something extraordinary ?
Let’s explore new horizons together!
Please reach out and connect with:
Play Speaks by Tanu!
Contact
Hours
Monday–Friday (excluding PHs)
9am-4pm (SGT / GMT+8)
WhatsApp
PLAY SPEAKS by Tanu
(+65- 8134 7397)
CoNNECT
Instagram
@playspeaksbytanu