Wait. How Does Play Therapy Even Work?
How Does Play Therapy Work?
That is the million-dollar question.
We know you can’t sit a four-year-old down and ask them, “Tell me why you are here today.” But what is something that all kids do on a daily basis?
KIDS PLAY.
The
Association of Play therapy defines play therapy “as way of being with the child that honors their unique developmental level and looks for ways of helping in the “language” of the child – play.“
But what is play therapy?
Essentially, play therapy works by using play and other creative activities as a means of communication and expression for children. During play therapy sessions, a trained therapist will provide a safe and supportive environment for the child to play and explore. The therapist may use a variety of play materials to engage the child in different types of play.
The therapist will observe and interact with the child during play, noting the child's behavior, actions, and responses.
Through this observation, the therapist can gain insight into the child's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The therapist may also guide the child in certain activities or use specific play techniques to help the child explore and work through difficult emotions or experiences.
Finally, the therapist will also talk to the child about their play and provide feedback, encouragement, and validation. This can also be used to teach children new skills and ways of thinking, such as problem-solving, self-regulation, and communication.
While the therapist is the facilitator, the child is in full control of the play and the therapist will follow the child's lead, allowing the child to express themselves in their own way. It can be used to address a wide range of issues, such as behavioral problems, emotional difficulties, and trauma, and can be tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each child.
It is important because it allows children to express themselves in a way that is natural and comfortable for them rather than through verbal communication, which may be difficult for them. Play therapy can be used to help children work through a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral problems.
It can also be used to support children's social and emotional development and to improve their communication and problem-solving skills. In addition, play therapy can be beneficial for children who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or who have a limited vocabulary.
Play therapy can be used in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and private practices. It can be used to address a wide range of issues, such as behavioral problems, emotional difficulties, and trauma.
These sessions take place in a specific room or area that is set up specifically for play and contains appropriate materials such as toys, games, and art supplies.
Who is play therapy for?
Now you may be asking yourself what is the age range for a child to participate in play therapy?
Ages 3-12 is especially appropriate for play therapy. Teenagers have also benefitted from play techniques as well.
What happens during a play therapy session?
During a play therapy session, your child will typically be given the opportunity to play with a variety of toys and materials, such as dolls, action figures, art supplies, games, pool noodles, and a host of things that will allow their creativity to take center stage.
We may also use other creative techniques such as storytelling, role-playing, and puppet play to help your child express themselves and work through their feelings.
This flexibility allows children to communicate and work through their thoughts and feelings in a non-threatening and developmentally appropriate way. It can also help children to develop coping skills, increase self-esteem, and improve relationships with others.
How are parents included in sessions?
While sessions happen between the therapist and the child on a regular cadence, parents are still included in updates periodically.
Parent sessions will be conducted every 3-4 sessions to discuss the child’s progress and any concerns you may have.
Conclusion on play therapy
Children, particularly those experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties, may have difficulty expressing themselves or understanding their thoughts and feelings in traditional forms of therapy.
In conclusion, play therapy lets children communicate and work through their thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-threatening, and developmentally appropriate way. It can also help children to hone in on the coping skills that work best for them. Increasing self-esteem and improving relationships with others are other ways that this type of therapy can benefit children.
If you’re wondering about how to help your child develop coping skills, work through trauma, or increase relationships with themselves and others, play therapy may be an avenue for you.
