18: Play is learning: How curiosity helps neurodivergent kids thrive with Angie Casella and Kaycee Larney

What if play was never just a break from learning but the learning itself?

In this deeply insightful episode, Laetitia speaks with Angie and Kaycee, the sister duo behind Curious Me, an award-winning, community-led organisation dedicated to creating inclusive, outdoor play spaces for neurodivergent children.

Together, they explore the power of curiosity-led, unstructured play and why messy, chaotic, and even “non-functional” play is essential for learning, regulation, and connection.

From rough-and-tumble to special interests, this episode busts myths about what play should look like and makes space for what it actually is: a vital, validating part of every child’s development.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this episode is your permission slip to reimagine play, trust your child’s process, and let go of outdated adult agendas.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS 👇

🧠 Why real play is self-directed, freely chosen and intrinsically motivated

🧠 How neurodivergent children process trauma, emotions, and sensory needs through play

🧠 What “risky play” teaches children about boundaries, safety and resilience

🧠 Why special interest play (like lining cars) is meaningful and doesn’t need to be redirected

🧠 How adults can reflect on their own biases around play, and make space for children to lead

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ABOUT THE GUEST 👇

Angie & Kaycee are the co-founders of Curious Me, an award-winning, community-focused organisation all about play. They create spaces where children explore and connect through curiosity-led, outdoor play that celebrates individuality and neurodiversity.

Grounded in children’s rights, playwork, and play advocacy, Curious Me is driven by the belief that play is real and every child belongs. Through their powerful mix of lived experience and educational expertise, Angie and Kaycee are helping adults and children reclaim the joy and purpose of unstructured, inclusive play.

💻 Website: www.curiousme.com.au

📸 Instagram: @_curiousme

📘 Facebook: Curious Me

ABOUT THE HOST 👇

Laetitia Andrac (Autistic & ADHDer) is an award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and podcast host.

She is the bestselling author of Light It: How to Trust Your Intuition and Build a Thriving Business. With over 15 years of experience in consulting, strategy, and innovation, Laetitia has worked with industry leaders like Deloitte and Telstra.

Inspired by my journey as a neurodivergent parent, she co-founded Understanding Zoe, an AI-driven solution dedicated to supporting caregivers of neurodivergent children.

Her passion is creating a more neuroinclusive world, where everyone can thrive—whether in their homes, communities, or workplaces.