Therapeutic Play

"Play is a child's natural medium for self-expression"

- Virginia Axline

Therapeutic play provides a safe space for children to freely express themselves.

Play enables children to explore big emotions that they may not have the words for.

Therapeutic play may be used to support children who are experiencing:

past trauma
aggression and anger
family issues, like divorce, separation, or grief
domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
eating and toileting disorders

Or children who have been diagnosed with:

developmental delay or learning disabilities
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
anxiety or depression

Therapeutic Play Pathway

Our Play Therapist is able to deliver sessions at a school setting for 1:1 sessions or as part of a small group.

1:1 sessions

Suitable for 4-13 year olds with mild/moderate needs

12 week programme
45 minute sessions / once a week
This will take place at the same time every week during term time in a space in which the child feels safe.

Sessions are child-led which means the child choose toys and games they interact with. They’re free to play in their own way with minimal instructions or interruptions. Leanne will observe closely and participate if invited by the child.
Group sessions

Suitable for 4-13 year olds with mild/moderate needs

12 week programme
Once a week for 12 consecutive weeks
This will take place at the same time every week during term time, preferably at the children's school.

Group size varies.
Assessment

Initial Meeting
A meeting will be arranged with both parent and child to gain a understanding of the child's needs.

Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ)
This is a brief emotional and behavioural screening questionnaire for children and young people to be completed with the child if possible.

Treatment Plan
A treatment plan and a customised play toolkit will put together by the practitioner.
Play toolkit
One or more of the folllowing play tools and techniques will be implemented to support communication.

Creative visualisation
Storytelling
Role play
Puppets and masks
Character figures
Blocks and construction play
Water and sand play
Arts and crafts
Dance and Music
Outcomes
Hope and outcomes as outlined in the assessment by the parent/carer or school will be used as a baseline to measure impact and provide recommendations for next steps. The following key areas will also be observed:

behaviour
attitude
social interaction
mood
confidence
self-esteem