The nature of Play Therapy is based on the premise that play resides in the child’s natural ability to express themselves. Children do not need to be taught how to play, and in doing so can connect, contact and discharge their energy, prepare for routines and changes, set goals and feel their feelings.
Research has indicated that cognitively, a child’s ability to meaningfully express how they feel verbally and engage in abstract reasoning is not developmentally accessible until at least 11 years old. Therefore, using toys and engaging in play at the child’s level allows for the mediation and expression of their emotions and inner lives.
“Toys are used like words by children, and play is their language”.
Gary Landreth
The process of Play Therapy is child dependant. Client-centred play therapy is voluntary, intrinsically motivated, and child-led. The focus is on the relationship and rapport built in the playroom. This relationship, which is mediated by the Psychologist, fosters growth, change and stability. Play can take place through various activities the child chooses for themselves.
Symbolic play makes use of everyday objects and actions, such as interviews, routines, doll houses, puppets and costume play. Creative and Expressive play make use of various forms of art media such as painting, playing with playdough, conducting experiments, drawing, listening and making music. Games and structured play can introduce new concepts and skill building opportunities.
Correspondingly parental involvement is of primary importance, consistencies in carrying over demonstrated strengths and flexibility from the play room into the home environment is essential for progression and improvement. This creates space for feelings, boundary setting and stability in familial relationships.
References:
Landreth, G.L., (2012) Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship. 3rd ed.
Schaefer, C.E., & Cangelosi, D.M. (1993) Play Therapy Techniques.
Donald, D., Lazarus, S., & Moolla, M. (20214) Educational Psychology in a Social Context: Ecosystemic Applications in South Africa. 5th ed.
