Robert Jason Grant EdD

There is no such thing as toxic empathy. People say this who want to be cruel to other people and not called out for their cruelty.

Also, they don’t even know what empathy means.

Jen Taylor and I are doing something a little different with our featured AutPlay home study courses this year and we think you will like it! Each quarter there will be a different free training and then two additional trainings related to the free training that will be 20% off for the whole quarter!

We are getting things started with the free training Play Therapy Theories: A Basic Overview. To dive deeper, Play Therapy Theories are So Playful and The History of Play Therapy will be 20% off until March 31st using code GRANT20.

I hope you enjoy diving into my favorite modality – Play Therapy!

Play Therapy Theories: A Basic Overview (1.5 Hours) This 1.5 hour recorded course from Dr. Robert Jason Grant identifies the 10 seminal and historically significant play therapy theories identified by the Association for Play Therapy (APT).

When screen battles feel never-ending
You’re not imagining it — transitions are harder for a child’s brain than we often realise. Especially for neurodivergent young people, coming away from a screen isn’t a behaviour choice. It’s a nervous system shift.

When the dopamine drop hits
Screens create focus, comfort and predictable reward — so stopping suddenly can feel like falling off a cliff. Understanding the brain chemistry behind the struggle helps us respond with support, not frustration.

When it’s not defiance at all
So many meltdowns are simply a child overwhelmed by the jump from one state to another. Their brain isn’t misbehaving — it’s protecting them from overload.

When we can make transitions kinder
A few small changes — connection first, visual cues, sensory bridges, predictable rituals — can transform the experience for everyone at home or in the classroom.

When calm replaces conflict
The goal isn’t to remove screens. It’s to remove the stress around the transition. When we honour the brain, the battles ease.

When you want deeper support
If screens, meltdowns or dysregulation are daily challenges, my behaviour and emotional regulation toolkits walk you through scripts, routines and practical brain-based strategies. Link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.