Rhyannah Lesleighter

How long have you been working with Stronger Together Foundation? And what is your role?

I have been working at STF for 4 years as an occupational therapist. My role is lead occupational therapist.

What inspired you to work with kids? Was it the fun toys or something else?

Kids can have such a fun, care free attitude to life. There is a lot to learn from them about being yourself and enjoying life. But don’t get me wrong the craft, games and sensory play is a huge bonus!

What’s your go-to funny story from working with kids? (Spill the beans, we love a good laugh!)

I don’t have a great go-to story but I definitely have many moments where I giggle because I end a session with Frozen bandaids decorating my face or an excess of sunscreen lathered on my face, because what could be more fun than decorating your OT?

What’s the best part of your day? Is it that first sip of coffee or a little victory with a kiddo?

The best part of my day is when a kiddo is unapologetically themselves, the intense whole body experience of a stim when something is exciting or the big grin and connection when you listen and understand their language.

What’s your favourite activity or game you play in sessions?

My fave go to is bubbles or playdough, they are classics. Playdough I think you can do almost anything with!

When you’re not at work, where would we most likely find you?

Playing board games with friends and family, exploring nature or at home making Lego.

Is there a book or movie that totally speaks to your work? (Bonus points if it’s a kid’s movie!)

Oh! Never thought of this! Maybe Going on a Bear Hunt. We go through so many different experiences and challenges that are really difficult (swishing through long grass, squelching through mud, splashing through water) and we never know what’s going to come of it but we do it as a team.

At the end of the day, sometimes we need to run back to our safe space to regulate before we go out adventuring and learning again.

What is your favourite animal? And do you have any pets?

My favourite animal is a sloth! I have a pet turtle!

What’s your guilty pleasure snack that powers you through a long day?

A cheeky chocolate, never goes astray!

Finish this sentence: “When I grow up, I want to be as cool as…!”

My Mum <3