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Play Therapy: Supporting Children's Emotional Well-being
Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach primarily used to help children ages 3 to 12 explore their lives and freely express repressed thoughts and emotions through play. Therapeutic play normally takes place in a safe, comfortable playroom, where the child has a wide variety of toys and materials to choose from and lead the play. The therapist observes the child’s choices and actions, looking for themes or patterns to understand their problems. Through play, children can communicate, explore repressed thoughts and emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and learn about relationships and the world around them.
References:
Axline, V.M. (1947). Play Therapy: The Groundbreaking Book That Has Become a Vital Tool in the Growth and Development of Children. Ballantine Books.
Reddy, L.A., Files-Hall, T.M., & Schaefer, C.E. (2005). Empirically Based Play Interventions for Children. American Psychological Association.