Where One ConnectionLeads to Another
Relationship-based play for neurodivergent children from birth to six, rooted in DIRFloortime® and always led by your child.
Our Approach
Rooted in the DIRFloortime® Approach
At Aha Connections we use the DIRFloortime® approach to support each child’s emotional, social, and intellectual development through relationship-based play. Recognizing that every child is unique, we meet them where they are developmentally and follow their lead to nurture confidence, engagement, and growth.
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Child-Led
We begin with what already matters to your child, their interests, strengths and their way of navigating the world.
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Relationship-Based
Every session with your child is built on connection, trust, and shared emotional experiences, which form the foundation for their learning, growth, and development.
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Individualized
We honor each child’s unique individual differences, adapting our interactions, play and environment to support their sensory, emotional, communication and developmental needs.
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Play-Centered
Play is the pathway to connection, curiosity, and growth, and fostering it builds the foundation for your child’s learning.
What We Offer
Our Services
Three ways to work with Jen, each one built around your child. Select one to learn more.
Just looking for a place to play? The Play Studio offers open play, a space for children to explore, imagine and connect.
See the Play StudioGetting Started
How It Works
Serving families throughout the Merrimack Valley. Every family begins with a free consultation, with no commitment.
- 1
Free Consultation
A free intro call to talk about your child, what you’re noticing and what you’re hoping for.
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See If It’s a Good Fit
If Aha Connections feels right for your family, you and Jen plan the next step together.
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Initial Meeting
Jen meets your child at your home or at the play studio, wherever they feel most comfortable, and begins to get to know them.
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Ongoing Sessions
One-hour sessions built around your child’s interests, growing with them over time.
Visit Us
The Play Studio
258 Salem Road, Billerica, MA 01821
The Play Studio is where Jen provides her services and a place where children can come for open play.
Explore. Imagine. Connect.
Children can come to the studio simply to play, explore, imagine and connect in a space designed for them, while parents and caregivers can join in play and connect with other caregivers.
$13 first child · $7 each additional sibling
Pretend Play
Through make-believe, children act out and make sense of the world around them, practicing how to navigate everyday experiences.
Movement
Climbing and big-body play give children ways to regulate their bodies.
Sensory Play
Hands-on sensory materials help children regulate their bodies and learn about their senses.
Building
Building and STEM play invite children to collaborate, share thoughts and ideas, practice flexibility and navigate social concepts together.
Connect
Where parents and caregivers can connect too.
Coming in 2027: An outdoor playground.
Founder · Aha Connectionschildhood education
About
Meet Jen
Why Choose Aha Connections?
Jen Deady specializes in supporting autistic children and their families through relationship-based play.
As an Advanced DIRFloortime® Provider with over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, Jen brings expertise, understanding, and a personalized approach to every session, helping each child grow emotionally, socially, and developmentally.
Jen’s goal is to empower children to connect, communicate, and thrive through meaningful relationships and joyful learning experiences — with individualized, relationship-based support for every neurodivergent child she works with.
Her path runs through early intervention, directing a Massachusetts specialty services provider and 12 years at a therapeutic school in Lexington.
Jen also offers the RITA-T (Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers), a brief, play-based screening tool for children under 36 months that focuses on social communication, engagement, and interaction through guided, relational play. The RITA-T is not a diagnostic tool; rather, it provides supportive information that can help families better understand their child’s social-emotional development and consider next steps if needed.
- Early Intervention
- 12 Years at a Therapeutic School
- Yoga & Mindfulness Teacher (Pre-K–2)
- Social Thinking® Trained
“Follow the child” is not another thing to add to the play. It is the starting point for understanding where the child already wants to go.
Kind Words
Jen Deady came into our lives when our family needed her the most! She came to our house to support our boys three times a week - it was the highlight of our boys week when Jen came to play! Although we brought her in to help our boys, she quickly became a confidant and important part of our family. Jen became a source of support, comfort and gentle guidance as we navigated all sorts of speed bumps and breakthroughs. She epitomizes child led - often gently guiding us on how we can meet our boys exactly where they are. She wasn’t afraid to join the boys in the sandbox or bring their favorite toys over to encourage joint-attention and play. She also celebrated and taught us the importance of shared joy. What a gift! Knowing our boys got to work with Jen and all she encompasses was one of the greatest chapters of our family’s story.
FAQ
Questions Parents Ask
Don’t see yours? Jen is happy to talk it through.
Neurodivergent children from birth to age six, and the families raising them. Every child’s plan starts from their own interests, strengths and developmental profile.
A developmental, relationship-based model. The adult follows the child’s lead in play and builds from there. Instead of focusing on behavior or compliance, it nurtures emotional regulation, social engagement and meaningful, child-led interaction.
Yes. Every family starts with a free intro call to talk about your child and see whether Aha Connections is a good fit.
Sessions are one hour. The number of weekly sessions is based on family preference.
At the Aha Connections play studio, 258 Salem Road, Billerica, MA 01821. The initial meeting can take place at your home or at the studio, and Support in the Community sessions happen in the places your child already spends time.
Yes. Alongside sessions with Jen, the Play Studio is open for open play: a place for children to explore, imagine and connect, where parents and caregivers can connect too. Use “Sign Up for Open Play” to see the open play days and reserve a spot.
Jen will announce when there are five minutes left. Each session ends with a five-minute bubble party.
Families throughout the Merrimack Valley.
No. Aha Connections is a private pay practice and does not accept insurance. Email jen@ahaconnections.com for current rates.
Closely. With your approval, sessions are videotaped so you and Jen can reflect, identify goals and see your child’s progress together. Additional support may include weekly Zoom sessions and parent coaching.
Let’s Connect
Connect With Jen
Every family starts with a free consultation. Tell Jen a little about your child and she’ll get back to you to set up a call. Interested in open play? Just say so in your message.
From Jen’s Blog
Resources for Families
Notes from Jen on play, DIRFloortime® and supporting neurodivergent children at home.
Aha Connections Supporting Neurodivergent Children: A Resource for Families
Read Article
The Importance of Play for Neurodivergent Children
Read Article
Understanding the “I” in DIRFloortime: Individual Differences
Read Article
FreeThe Power of Affect, Pace & Relationship in Floortime
Jen’s guide to three simple tools that turn everyday play into connection. Yours to keep, no sign-up needed.
Open the Guide