Play therapy can often look like “just playing,” but there is so much more happening beneath the surface. As a parent, you might be wondering how you can best support your child’s therapy sessions. Understanding the unique role you play in this process can help your child gain the most from their time in therapy. Here’s how you can support your child’s journey in a way that empowers them and nurtures their growth.

1. Let Your Child Lead the Play

In play therapy, the child takes the lead. While it might seem unusual, this child-directed approach is one of the core principles of play therapy. Children naturally express their thoughts and feelings through play, and when they are given the freedom to choose what and how they want to play, they are able to work through emotions in a way that feels safe and empowering.

Why This Matters:

- It helps your child build confidence by making decisions for themselves.

- Children often process their emotions through play, allowing them to work through their thoughts at their own pace.

According to the Association for Play Therapy, children have an innate ability to process emotions during play, and when they are free to lead, they can navigate their feelings in a self-paced way that fosters emotional resilience.

2. Supporting Without Directing: A Non-Intrusive Approach

It’s natural for parents to want to make sure their child is benefiting from therapy. As a result, you might feel the urge to ask questions or suggest how they should engage in their play. However, play therapy is most effective when children are given the freedom to explore without outside influence.

How You Can Support:

- Instead of asking detailed questions about what your child did in therapy, offer gentle, affirming statements like, “I noticed you looked really focused today,” or “I can tell you had a good time with your play.” This opens the door for your child to share when they’re ready.

- Allow your child to decide how much they want to talk about their experience. It’s perfectly okay if they don’t share right away.

Why This Helps:

- It shows your child that they are trusted to manage their own process.

- Avoiding detailed questioning encourages a more natural sharing process, free of pressure. This helps your child feel in control of their own therapy journey.

Experts in child development, including those from the Child Mind Institute, suggest that a non-directive approach helps children feel safe and supported without overwhelming them with questions. This allows children to express their thoughts when they are ready.

3. Encouraging Self-Discovery Through Play

One of the main goals of play therapy is to help children trust themselves. When a child is allowed to direct their play, they are learning to rely on their own instincts and creativity. This process of self-discovery is essential for building emotional intelligence and self-regulation.

Supporting Your Child’s Growth:

- By allowing your child to lead the play, you’re fostering their confidence in their own abilities. They’ll begin to learn that they can trust their thoughts, feelings, and decisions.

- As your child navigates their feelings during play, they are building valuable coping skills that will serve them well outside of therapy.

The importance of giving children the space to make decisions, without intervention, is highlighted in studies on self-regulation and emotional development. This helps children not only process difficult emotions but also strengthens their sense of self and autonomy.

 Final Tips for Parents:

- Be Patient: Play therapy is a journey, and it can take time to see results. Rest assured that your child is making progress even if it’s not immediately visible.

- Respect Your Child’s Pace: Remember that it’s okay if your child doesn’t feel like talking after a session. Let them share what they’re comfortable with when they are ready.

- Stay in Touch with the Therapist: If you ever have concerns or want to understand how things are progressing, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your partnership with the therapist is vital to your child’s success.

By understanding the role you play and how to best support your child’s process, you are empowering them to take ownership of their emotional growth. You’re also showing them that you trust them, which is a powerful message in itself.

For more information on play therapy and how you can support your child, check out resources from the Association for Play Therapy and Child Mind Institute. These organizations offer insightful articles and tips on how to make the most of the therapeutic process for your child.