Play Therapy

The Importance of Play

Over years of research, child development specialists have learned that play is an integral component of physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development. Play allows children a safe environment to move through different situations, gain practice in making decisions and solving problems, and learn from others. Play is also vital in creating secure attachments in children which, in turn, supports a child’s ability to explore their world. Play truly is a child’s first language and is such an impactful part of childhood.

What is Play Therapy?

According to Rise VanFleet, renowned play therapist and author, play therapy “uses children’s natural inclination to play as a means of creating an emotionally safe therapeutic environment that encourages communication, relationship-building, expression, and problem resolution for the child”. Play therapy allows the therapist to meet with each child in a way that is developmentally appropriate, safe, and meaningful. Essentially, play therapy allows the therapist to join the child’s world. 

Play therapy can be used to address any number of mental health and behavioural difficulties as the process is highly attuned to the child and allows the therapist to guide the child through the work they need do together.  

Play Therapy at Tessellate Child and Family Therapy

Play therapy can look a number of different ways, including using art, storytelling, therapeutic games, puppetry, and imaginary and role playing. Here at Tessellate Child and Family Therapy, we believe in creating a treatment plan that fits for each unique child and incorporating tools that are meaningful to them. Our Certified Play Therapist will work with your child and your family to ensure that play therapy sessions are effective and impactful.