Play Therapy
Play Therapy for Children 2-12 years. Children process their thoughts and feelings through play. Play therapy is an evidenced based approach which helps children learn to communicate with others, learn new social skills, develop self-esteem, regulate emotions, problem solve and become more responsible for behaviours.
According to numerous researchers worldwide, play is a child’s first creative outlet and is vital for early childhood development. There is growing evidence of the efficacy of play as a form of therapy for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Hinterland Children’s Therapy on the Gold Coast provides play therapy to help children learn and develop emotional and social skills through the act of play.
What Is Play Therapy?
There are many approaches to play therapy, including directive methods, in which the therapist designs and facilitates the activity, and non-directive or child-centred methods where the child chooses the game independently. American psychologist Virginia Axline developed child-centred play therapy in the mid-twentieth century, and her principles remain relevant in many modern play therapy techniques. Although the type of play suited to your child depends on their unique needs, the following practices remain standard:
Building a trusting relationship with the child. Our play therapists aim to build trust with the children during therapy. We allow children to lead the activities and work through the process in their own time at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
Providing toys for play. Your child will have access to a range of toys in the playroom during a therapy session, which they can choose to play with at will. Many of the toys provided encourage children to act out scenarios from their lives.
Encouraging expression. Playing is all about expression and creativity, and the therapist allows your child to express emotions without judgement during play. We aim to help children feel accepted and safe to be themselves throughout the therapy session.
Benefits of Play Therapy for Children With Learning Difficulties
According to the Australian Psychological Society, there is growing neurobiological evidence for the efficacy of play therapy for children experiencing a range of behaviours that cause concern, psychosocial issues, physical and learning disabilities, and speech and language difficulties. There are numerous benefits of play therapy, including:
Helps children cope with stress. Research supports that play therapy is an effective way for children to express their concerns and deal with frustrations they may be experiencing. Play therapy can help a child adjust to new situations and develop healthy responses to stress.
Improves problem-solving skills. During play therapy, children often act out scenarios from their lives and get to practice social interactions in a safe environment. Imaginary situations played out with the therapist can help a child develop valuable problem-solving skills.
Encourages communication. Play therapy provides children with a safe space to express themselves through speech and language and practice communication with the therapist during play. Play therapy is usually an enjoyable experience for children, cultivating a positive outlook on social relationships.