Exploring Play Therapy Activities: How Play Heals by Jennifer Eubank LPC-Associate

Play therapy provides children with a safe and supportive space to express their emotions, work through challenges, and explore solutions to problems. The beauty of play therapy lies in its flexibility and child-centered approach. Through various activities, therapists help children communicate in ways that feel natural to them, unlocking new pathways for emotional and cognitive growth. Here are a few common play therapy activities and how they support a child’s healing process.

Role-playing with Dolls and Action Figures

Role-playing allows children to act out situations they’re experiencing or struggling to understand. Whether it’s school-related stress or conflicts with friends or family, children can use dolls or action figures to work through complex emotions. Therapists observe and provide gentle guidance, helping the child gain insight into their feelings and behaviors while fostering problem-solving skills.

Drawing and Art Activities

Art is a powerful tool for children who may not have the words to express what’s on their minds. In play therapy, children may choose to draw or use clay to create scenes that represent their thoughts or experiences. These creations open the door for therapists to explore the child’s emotional world in a way that feels less direct and intimidating.

Sand Tray Therapy

In sand tray therapy, children may use miniature toys, figurines, and objects to create scenes in a sandbox. This process allows them to express themselves symbolically, playing out their inner worlds and processing trauma, fear, or uncertainty. The tactile and creative aspects of this activity help soothe the nervous system while revealing patterns of behavior that may need attention.

Puppets

Using puppets can be an engaging and non-threatening way for children to explore feelings or communicate difficult emotions. Children might use a puppet to talk about something they’re too scared or shy to say directly. The separation created by the puppet allows children to project their emotions onto something external, making it easier to express themselves.

These play therapy activities empower children to process their thoughts, develop coping skills, and build resilience—all through the medium of play.