Child Play Therapy
“Play therapy is a structured, theoretically based approach to therapy that builds on the normal communicative and learning processes of children.” [i]. In Play Therapy, “playing” is the language children use to communicate their needs and express their emotions. Using selected materials and toys within a safe environment, children are able to work through their problems, modify their behaviors, develop problem-solving skills, achieve their potential, and access their inner resources.
Research shows that Play Therapy can be effective with children experiencing a wide range of social, emotional, behavioural, and learning problems. Play Therapy helps children:
- Become more responsible for behaviours and develop more successful strategies.
- Develop new and creative solutions to problems.
- Develop respect and acceptance of self and others.
- Learn to experience and express emotion.
- Cultivate empathy and respect for thoughts and feelings of others.
- Learn new social skills and relational skills with family.
- Develop self-efficacy and thus better confidence about their abilities.[ii]
If you are interested in having your child participate in Play Therapy, we invite you to contact us directly and speak with one of our staff who will gladly answer your questions and pair you with one of our counsellors.
References:
[i] APT, 2016; Retrieved from http://www.a4pt.org/page/PTMakesADifference
[ii]APT, 2016; Retrieved from http://www.a4pt.org/page/PTMakesADifference