Play Therapy
One in six children aged five to 16 were identified as having a probable mental health problem in July 2020. That’s five children in every classroom (source: Young Minds)
In our school we value each and every one of our children. Understanding that children’s well-being needs to be protected and nurtured so that they can reach their potential and live “life in all its fullness” (John 10:10)
Every Tuesday afternoon, our trainee therapist, Laraine Carr will be delivering sessions for children identified that would benefit from this play.
What is Play Therapy?
Using play in therapy helps people to express themselves in their own way; especially if they are struggling to understand how they are feeling, or are finding it hard to put their experiences into words.
How can Play Therapy help my child?
Play is vital to every child's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, creative and language development. It helps make learning concrete for all children and young people including those for whom verbal communication may be difficult.
Play Therapy helps children in a variety of ways. Children receive emotional support and can learn to understand more about their own feelings and thoughts. Sometimes they may re-enact or play out traumatic or difficult life experiences in order to make sense of their past and cope better with their future. Children may also learn to manage relationships and conflicts in more appropriate ways.
The outcomes of Play Therapy may be general e.g. a reduction in anxiety and raised self-esteem, or more specific such as a change in behaviour and improved relations with family and friends.
What will happen in my child's Play Therapy sessions?
In Play Therapy sessions, children explore their own creativity and express themselves using media such as: drawing and painting, water and clay, sand tray and miniatures, guided imagery and relaxation techniques, drama and puppetry, poetry, movement and music.
What does a Play Therapist do?
Play Therapists receive extensive training in subjects such as child development and attachment (the bonding process). They are also trained to use play, a child's natural form of expression, as a means for understanding and communicating with children about feelings, thoughts and behaviour. The session is non-directive, where the child directs their own process rather than therapist.
How long does Play Therapy take?
Some children will respond to a short-term intervention (for example up to 12 sessions). Sessions are once a week and consistency on a regular day and at the same time and place is very important for developing a trusting relationship. Unplanned missed sessions may disrupt the progress.
