Meet Our Founders
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson is the co-founder of Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre, an award-winning author, neuroscience coach, sensory inclusive educator and passionate advocate for children who learn differently.
Her journey into child development began through her son Max. Following Max’s diagnosis with an aggressive brain tumour at eighteen months old, Shirley spent years navigating medical treatments, rehabilitation, developmental challenges and educational pathways across multiple countries. Alongside this journey, she immersed herself in understanding neuroscience, sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation and inclusive education.
As both a professional and the parent of a child with complex developmental and medical needs, Shirley brings a unique blend of lived experience and evidence-based practice to her work. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and flourish, regardless of diagnosis or starting point.
In 2023, unable to find the educational support her son needed, Shirley co-founded Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre in Phuket, Thailand. What began as a small playroom supporting one child has grown into a multidisciplinary developmental learning centre serving both local and international families.
Today, Shirley works alongside educators, therapists and families to create pathways that support children’s development in communication, cognition, physical wellbeing, life skills and emotional resilience. She is particularly passionate about helping families access meaningful long-term educational journeys, including the development of ASDAN pathways at Maximise that celebrate each learner’s individual strengths and achievements.
Shirley is the award-winning author of Cancer, I Forgive You. She is also the creator of 100 Sensory Games by Maximise, an upcoming book scheduled for publication in 2027, featuring practical play-based activities inspired by the children, and guided by her specialist partner, with the aim in supporting families and learning journeys through play activities.
Her philosophy is simple:
Every child deserves the opportunity to maximise their potential, regardless of where they begin their journey.
Wipaporn “Ting Ting” Aunjaroenkul
Co-Founder | Child Development Psychologist | Director & Managing Therapist
Wipaporn “Ting Ting” Aunjaroenkul
Co-Founder | Child Development Psychologist | Director & Managing Therapist
Wipaporn “Ting Ting” Aunjaroenkul is a Child Development Psychologist, educator and co-founder of Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre. As Director and Managing Therapist, she leads the development of Maximise’s assessment frameworks, therapeutic programmes and educational pathways, helping children build skills for learning, independence and lifelong participation. With more than a decade of experience working with children, families and schools, Ting Ting specialises in child development, cognitive and emotional wellbeing, learning needs and behavioural support. She is committed to helping parents and educators understand the “why” behind a child’s behaviour and developmental profile, allowing meaningful support to be built around each child’s strengths.
Ting Ting graduated with First-Class Honours in Clinical Psychology from Saint Louis College and was awarded the prestigious Royal Award for Outstanding Student by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. She later completed a Master’s degree in Innovation for Child Development and Protection at Mahidol University, focusing on evidence-based approaches that improve developmental outcomes and child wellbeing. Her professional experience spans developmental assessment, psychological support, educator training, curriculum development and family coaching. Throughout her career, she has supported children with diverse developmental profiles, including ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, learning differences, anxiety, emotional regulation challenges and acquired brain injuries.
Before co-founding Maximise, Ting Ting contributed to organisations including BrainFit Thailand and Life Education Thailand, supporting educational psychology programmes, curriculum design, research projects and teacher training initiatives. She is also a co-author of educational resources including Growth Mindset Journal and Light of Opportunity, and has contributed to projects that promote positive psychology, resilience and child empowerment. In 2023, a chance connection through Max’s physiotherapist brought Ting Ting from Bangkok to Phuket. What began as a collaboration to support one little boy’s developmental journey became the beginning of Maximise. Today, she works alongside Shirley and the Maximise team to support local and international families through multidisciplinary, child-centred programmes that integrate psychology, education, sensory-informed practice and family partnership.
As Maximise continues to grow, Ting Ting is leading the integration of ASDAN pathways into the Maximise learning framework. Her vision is to create educational journeys that combine psychology, developmental science and practical life skills, allowing every learner to progress towards greater independence, self-confidence and meaningful participation in society.
Her philosophy is simple:
Every child deserves to be seen, heard, understood and given the opportunity to thrive.
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson is the co-founder of Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre, an award-winning author, neuroscience coach, sensory inclusive educator and passionate advocate for children who learn differently.
Her journey into child development began through her son Max. Following Max’s diagnosis with an aggressive brain tumour at eighteen months old, Shirley spent years navigating medical treatments, rehabilitation, developmental challenges and educational pathways across multiple countries. Alongside this journey, she immersed herself in understanding neuroscience, sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation and inclusive education.
As both a professional and the parent of a child with complex developmental and medical needs, Shirley brings a unique blend of lived experience and evidence-based practice to her work. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and flourish, regardless of diagnosis or starting point.
In 2023, unable to find the educational support her son needed, Shirley co-founded Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre in Phuket, Thailand. What began as a small playroom supporting one child has grown into a multidisciplinary developmental learning centre serving both local and international families.
Today, Shirley works alongside educators, therapists and families to create pathways that support children’s development in communication, cognition, physical wellbeing, life skills and emotional resilience. She is particularly passionate about helping families access meaningful long-term educational journeys, including the development of ASDAN pathways at Maximise that celebrate each learner’s individual strengths and achievements.
Shirley is the award-winning author of Cancer, I Forgive You. She is also the creator of 100 Sensory Games by Maximise, an upcoming book scheduled for publication in 2027, featuring practical play-based activities inspired by the children, and guided by her specialist partner, with the aim in supporting families and learning journeys through play activities.
Her philosophy is simple:
Every child deserves the opportunity to maximise their potential, regardless of where they begin their journey.
Meet Our Foundation
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson is the co-founder of Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre, an award-winning author, neuroscience coach, sensory inclusive educator and passionate advocate for children who learn differently.
Her journey into child development began through her son Max. Following Max’s diagnosis with an aggressive brain tumour at eighteen months old, Shirley spent years navigating medical treatments, rehabilitation, developmental challenges and educational pathways across multiple countries. Alongside this journey, she immersed herself in understanding neuroscience, sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation and inclusive education.
As both a professional and the parent of a child with complex developmental and medical needs, Shirley brings a unique blend of lived experience and evidence-based practice to her work. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and flourish, regardless of diagnosis or starting point.
In 2023, unable to find the educational support her son needed, Shirley co-founded Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre in Phuket, Thailand. What began as a small playroom supporting one child has grown into a multidisciplinary developmental learning centre serving both local and international families.
Today, Shirley works alongside educators, therapists and families to create pathways that support children’s development in communication, cognition, physical wellbeing, life skills and emotional resilience. She is particularly passionate about helping families access meaningful long-term educational journeys, including the development of ASDAN pathways at Maximise that celebrate each learner’s individual strengths and achievements.
Shirley is the award-winning author of Cancer, I Forgive You. She is also the creator of 100 Sensory Games by Maximise, an upcoming book scheduled for publication in 2027, featuring practical play-based activities inspired by the children, and guided by her specialist partner, with the aim in supporting families and learning journeys through play activities.
Her philosophy is simple:
Every child deserves the opportunity to maximise their potential, regardless of where they begin their journey.
Meet Our Foundation
Shirley Johnson
Co-Founder | Award-Winning Author | Sensory Inclusive Educator | Neuroscience Coach | Parent Advocate
Shirley Johnson is the co-founder of Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre, an award-winning author, neuroscience coach, sensory inclusive educator and passionate advocate for children who learn differently.
Her journey into child development began through her son Max. Following Max’s diagnosis with an aggressive brain tumour at eighteen months old, Shirley spent years navigating medical treatments, rehabilitation, developmental challenges and educational pathways across multiple countries. Alongside this journey, she immersed herself in understanding neuroscience, sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation and inclusive education.
As both a professional and the parent of a child with complex developmental and medical needs, Shirley brings a unique blend of lived experience and evidence-based practice to her work. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and flourish, regardless of diagnosis or starting point.
In 2023, unable to find the educational support her son needed, Shirley co-founded Maximise Child Development and Learning Centre in Phuket, Thailand. What began as a small playroom supporting one child has grown into a multidisciplinary developmental learning centre serving both local and international families.
Today, Shirley works alongside educators, therapists and families to create pathways that support children’s development in communication, cognition, physical wellbeing, life skills and emotional resilience. She is particularly passionate about helping families access meaningful long-term educational journeys, including the development of ASDAN pathways at Maximise that celebrate each learner’s individual strengths and achievements.
Shirley is the award-winning author of Cancer, I Forgive You. She is also the creator of 100 Sensory Games by Maximise, an upcoming book scheduled for publication in 2027, featuring practical play-based activities inspired by the children, and guided by her specialist partner, with the aim in supporting families and learning journeys through play activities.
Her philosophy is simple:
Every child deserves the opportunity to maximise their potential, regardless of where they begin their journey.
Founder Statement
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
Founder Statement
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
Founder Statement
Founder Statement
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
Founder Statement
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
We support children who are neurodiverse, developmentally delayed, struggling in school, or simply “don’t fit” conventional systems. Many of our students have siblings in international schools, and many parents arrive at our door feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or unsure of where to turn.
Our mission is simple:
to provide the care, expertise and understanding that every child deserves.
And to give parents the support we once needed ourselves.
Founder Statement
Our Story
Maximise was founded through the partnership of a parent and a psychologist.
One brought lived experience from navigating childhood cancer, rehabilitation and special educational needs. The other brought years of expertise in child development, psychology and educational innovation.
Together, they shared a simple belief:
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, belong and maximise their potential.
Today, Maximise supports local and international families through developmental programmes that integrate education, therapy, sensory-informed practice and real-world pathways, including ASDAN accreditation. What began with one child has grown into a community committed to helping every learner thrive.
What We Provide
Our multidisciplinary team offers:
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Speech and communication support
- Cognitive and emotional coaching
- Sensory integration and movement programmes
- Individualised learning programmes
- Learning assistant/shadow teacher training
- School readiness & reintegration programmes
- Parent support and guidance
We specialise in supporting children who fall in the “in‑between zone” — not severe enough for special schools, yet not supported enough by mainstream ones.
Why We Are Different
Maximise is a centre founded by parents who have lived through medical trauma, developmental uncertainty and the loneliness that comes when your child does not fit the system.
We understand fear, hope, frustration and resilience — because we have lived it.
And this lived experience shapes everything we do.
Our Vision for the Future
Our long‑term goal is to grow Maximise into a trusted, holistic ecosystem for children and families. This includes:
expanded therapy
and learning facilities
training programmes for
Thai and international
school staff
Thai‑language
micro‑learning for
parents and teachers
parent support
publishing sensory
and educational
resources
Our Promise
At Maximise, every child is seen.
Every family is heard.
Every achievement — no matter how small — matters.
We are here because of Max.
We continue because of every child who walks through our doors.
And we believe deeply in each child’s potential to grow, learn and flourish.
This is Maximise.
A place built from the heart, for children with extraordinary journeys.
