About PLAY
Deanna Sheedy, the founder and executive director of PLAY, knows the stigma of overcoming mental health struggles firsthand. In 2015, after giving birth to her daughter, Deanna began experiencing extreme worry, sadness, and hopelessness. She knew something was wrong, but it wasn’t until a conversation with her husband—and later, her doctor—that Deanna discovered she was experiencing postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is just one example of many common mental health conditions that are shrouded in shame and often left untreated.
When Deanna gave birth to her second daughter, she was prepared with the resources she needed for a healthy postpartum recovery.
Now, Deanna is rolling up her sleeves to give children and their families the same hope and encouragement she received: You are not alone, and there are resources to help get you through.
Relax, be yourself, and come PLAY!
Meet the Founder
PLAY was established in 2017 as a unique provider of mindfulness, art, and yoga classes for children and families in the Phoenix area.
In 2020, with kids at home and families in need of support more than ever, we began to deliver mindfulness kits and training to our growing community of low-income Title I schools and family resource centers. Through an evidence-based curriculum, PLAY is proud to help cultivate the next generation of happy, healthy, and compassionate citizens.
Our Story
PLAY offers innovative mindfulness tools and training to children, families, and the professionals who support them.
Our Mission
We believe in a world where every child is empowered by inner and external strength, self-awareness, and compassion for themselves and others.
We equip children with the skills they need to lead happier, healthier lives.
Our Vision
We’re a team of educators, counselors, artists, and yogis passionate about the power of PLAY.
Every child deserves to feel heard, seen, and celebrated. We can’t wait to meet you!
