Circle of Security Parenting

What is COSP?

COSP is an evidence-based approach designed to strengthen the bond between parents and children by fostering emotional security and building healthy attachment. It helps parents understand their child's needs through a simple, visual framework that focuses on providing a secure base for exploration and a safe haven for comfort.

By supporting parents in recognising and responding to their child's emotional cues, the Circle of Security model promotes secure attachment, enhances emotional regulation, and builds stronger, more trusting relationships between parents and children. This approach is effective for children of all ages and offers practical tools for parents to feel more confident in meeting their child’s emotional needs.

How does it work?

COSP is an 8-week course that requires a commitment of 1.5 hours per week of live online sessions via Zoom with a facilitator and other participants. In addition to the weekly group sessions, there will be time for individual reflection throughout the week, allowing you to integrate and apply the course content to your own parenting journey.

What is the evidence behind COSP?

COSP is based on over 50 years of research in the fields of attachment theory and child development. The approach is grounded in the work of Bowlby’s Attachment Theory, which highlights the importance of secure emotional bonds between children and their caregivers for healthy development. It also draws on the research of Mary Ainsworth, who expanded on Bowlby’s work by identifying different attachment styles and their impact on emotional regulation and relationships.

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The model integrates findings from numerous studies on attachment, emotional regulation, and caregiving behaviours, all of which demonstrate the critical role of responsive, emotionally attuned parenting in promoting secure attachment. Research has shown that children with secure attachments are better able to explore the world confidently, regulate their emotions, and develop strong social and cognitive skills.

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COSP itself has been widely tested and refined through both clinical practice and ongoing studies, demonstrating positive outcomes for both parents and children in enhancing emotional connection, parenting confidence, and overall family well-being.

Why Study Circle of Security with a Registered Play Therapist?

The Circle of Security program, developed by Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper and Bert Powell, is grounded in decades of attachment research. While many facilitators are trained to deliver the program, completing it with a Registered Play Therapist offers an added depth of understanding and clinical insight.

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A Registered Play Therapist is extensively trained in child development, attachment theory, emotional regulation, trauma, and the neuroscience of play. This means the material is not only presented — it is interpreted through a therapeutic lens. Complex parenting moments can be explored in greater depth, and individual family dynamics can be gently unpacked with professional sensitivity.

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In addition, Registered Play Therapists are trained to observe subtle relational patterns, defensive behaviours, and underlying emotional needs that may not be immediately visible. Parents often receive more personalised reflections, practical strategies tailored to their child’s developmental stage, and support in applying Circle of Security concepts in real-life situations.

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The program fee reflects this additional level of professional training, clinical experience, and capacity to hold sensitive discussions safely and ethically. You are not simply attending a parenting course — you are engaging in a therapeutic, attachment-informed experience guided by a specialist in child emotional wellbeing.

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For families wanting not just information, but transformation, this added expertise can make a meaningful difference.