Play Techniques Often Used During Play Therapy

Play therapy can use a variety of different techniques of play to build a good relationship with a child, to help the child learn new skills, to teach the child to cope and process emotional things and also to have the opportunity to help a child carry emotional burdens. Here is a list of a few popular techniques often used by play therapists during play therapy:

1. Sandplay

It is a non-verbal, symbolic therapy that involves creating scenes or stories with miniature figures and props in a sand tray. It allows children to express their emotions, thoughts and feelings through the creation of symbolic representations.

2. Dramatic Play

This technique involves the use of props, costumes and role-playing activities to act out real-life situations or to express emotions. Children can explore and work through their experiences and emotions in a safe and controlled environment.

3. Art Therapy

This involves the use of art materials such as paints, clay, and collage materials to create a visual representation of their thoughts and feelings. The process of creating art helps children to express themselves and can provide insight into their experiences.

4. Doll Play

Doll play allows children to act out scenarios with dolls or stuffed animals. This can help children to process their experiences, understand relationships, and work through difficult emotions. For some children this also expresses their needs of nurture.

5. Games and Activities

Play therapists may use board games, sports, or other activities to engage children and encourage them to interact with others in a fun and therapeutic environment. These activities can also be used to help children develop social skills, improve communication and build confidence. Some games are very educational and it can help children build resilience.

6. Music Therapy

This involves the use of music to help children express themselves and work through emotions. Children can listen to music, play instruments, or create their own music to help them process their experiences and emotions. A fun activity can also be a combination of making music with non-instrumental items.

7. Storytelling and Bibliotherapy

This technique involves the use of storytelling to help children explore their emotions and experiences. Play therapists can use stories to help children understand their feelings and process their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Bibliotherapy is reading a book with a child with specific outcomes to help the child connect to the characters and learn problem-solving skills.

8. Playful Problem-Solving

Play therapists may use play to help children identify and solve problems in their lives. They may use role-play, storytelling, or other play activities, to help children develop skills for problem-solving and decision-making.

These are some of the various therapeutic play techniques used by play therapists to assist children in processing and understanding their emotions, experiences, and behaviors. The choice of technique will depend on the individual child's needs and preferences, as well as the specific therapeutic goals of the play therapy process. The techniques also depends on the resources that the play therapist has available.

Knowing about some of these techniques can be quite an eye-opener to see our own kids play at home or at school, knowing that these 'simple' forms of play can go such a long way in helping our children through tuff times.