As defined by the Association for Play Therapy (APT), Play Therapy is "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained Play Therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."

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Play is the natural language of children. It is how they communicate and work out what is troubling them. Just like adults need someone to listen to them, children can benefit from a neutral person observing and being a part of their play. As parents, we often expect our kids to tell us what is wrong. Children cannot always process their troubles verbally; play therapy allows them to express their worries in a safe environment.

 

Toys and play materials have been carefully chosen to allow children to express themselves as needed.  Play therapy is a place for children to be themselves.

 

The short video above is a humorous example of what it would look like if children communicated like adults. 

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