Using The BOUNCE Approach®
What’s happening
- The PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy), developed by Dr Dan Hughes, is a therapeutic framework rooted in attachment and interpersonal neurobiology.
- It helps children and families build safe, trusting relationships by focusing on how we connect — not just what we say.
- At home or school, PACE strengthens bonds, reduces shame, and helps children feel seen and accepted.
- Energy battery impact: when children feel understood and connected, their energy drains less quickly and recovery from stress becomes easier.
The BOUNCE Approach®
🖤 B — Body and Nervous System (Inside Tool)
- Use playful tones and gentle humour to regulate nervous system stress.
- Stay calm and present when children are dysregulated — modelling nervous system safety.
❤️ O — Openness to Connection and Attachment (In-Between Tool)
- Show acceptance: “I love you as you are — even when it’s hard.”
- Provide unconditional presence rather than correction during emotional moments.
🧡 U — Understanding Sensory Differences (Outside Tool)
- Accept sensory needs as part of who the child is, not “problems to fix.”
- Stay curious about how sensory overload shapes behaviour, and adapt environments accordingly.
💚 N — Navigating Emotions (Inside Tool)
- Ask open-ended questions: “I wonder what that part of you was feeling?”
- Validate emotions rather than rushing to solve them.
💙 C — Connection to Self and Others (In-Between Tool)
- Build curiosity into daily interactions: explore interests, ask about experiences, celebrate individuality.
- Practise empathy: imagine how the child feels and reflect it back with kindness.
💜 E — Esteem and Identity (Inside Tool)
- Affirm children’s strengths and uniqueness.
- Use play and shared joy to build confidence and a sense of belonging.
Adult Focus:
- PACE is not about “techniques” — it’s about a way of being: playful, accepting, curious, and empathic.
- It works best when used with all family members (including adults) so the culture of home or school shifts to safety and connection.
- Consistency matters — small daily moments of PACE build trust over time.
Next Steps
- Explore further learning:
- Understanding PACE — full training on applying the framework in home and school settings.
- Being Trauma-Informed — recognising how trauma shapes connection and safety. (Professional Member exclusive)
- Improving Attachment through Play — practical strategies to embed PACE principles.
- Family Coaching: Learn how to use PACE at home — from bedtime routines to conflict repair — with personalised guidance. Click here
- Join the Learning Portal: Access 80+ trainings and resources, including PACE activities, scripts, and visual tools for families and professionals. Click here
👉 PACE isn’t just for therapists — it’s a mindset anyone can use to make children feel safe, accepted, and connected.
