Children are curious by nature and love to explore their surroundings. Since children operate from that tapestry, it is easy to infuse play therapy into session, especially when children are angry, sad, and isolated (“Association for Play Therapy”, 2017) play therapy differs from regular play in that the therapist helps children address and resolve their own problems through games. Play therapy builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them. Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others. Play also provides a safe psychological distance from their problems, and allows expression of thoughts and feelings appropriate to their development.
When “I” utilized play therapy during my practicum experience, the children loosened up during session, and started talking about their interests or hobbies as well as areas of their life that were problematic. This specific therapy allows children to verbally express themselves without feeling pressured or judged. The world of play can create peaceful, loving, and healing environments.
Mock Scenario
James is in the third grade. He is being bullied by one of his classmates. Instead of reporting the classmate's behavior, he begins to make inappropriate jokes about other students, falls asleep during class, and disrespects his teacher. James's mother brings him to counseling because he needs to talk about his issues. Since James is being bullied, it is important to incorporate the following games:
Anger Suit - Osborne (2017) anger suit allows children to explore feelings of anger and frustration. A child puts on an old suit or overcoat and must act out what anger looks, sounds and feels like. Teachers or parents encourage the child to fully examine the emotion of anger in the bully and the bully's target during a period of conflict. Children discuss how to cope with and resolve bullying situations, and the anger associated with it.
Safe Pair of Hands - Osborne (2017) each child in the group tosses a pair of dice. The first child to roll an even number takes a card that makes a statement about a bullying situation. Others in the group make suggestions to solve the problem on the statement card by first saying, "I can lend you a hand. Would it help if you/I/we…?" Children are then thanked and praised for their suggestions.
These games allow James to reflect on his recent behavior toward his teachers/other classmates as well as how to address bullying. Sometimes, when children are being bullied, it is hard to speak up and ask for help. Consequently, in today's time, it is imperative that teachers, counselors, and parents observe and speak up for a student who may be the target of abuse or bullying in a classroom setting.
Association for Play Therapy (2016) Play Therapy Makes a Difference. Retrieved from http://www.a4pt.org
Osborne, M (2017) Anti-bullying Games for Kids. Retrieved by https://www.livestrong.com/article/71792-stop-child-being-bully/
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Heather B. Duke is a marriage and family counselor in training. She will be completing her internship this summer in Chicago, Illinois. It is her passion to work with couples that are experiencing relational issues due to marriage, divorce, and custody arrangements.