The Power of Play

The Therapeutic Power of Play

Play is how children make sense of their world. Through play, kids explore feelings, practice new skills and discover who they are... all in a way that feels natural, safe and fun.

The instinct to play is built into our biology. For example, research shows that social-emotional intelligence in animals is connected to increased capacity for play. And animal groups that are more playful, actually live longer too! We are all hardwired for 'play', especially in early life (adults too! but that's another story).

We are all hardwired for play and ‘play’ is going to look different for everyone. Play is our instinctual motivation for connection, creativity and exploration.

Why PLAY is important and is the special ingredient in child therapy

Play is communication

Play helps children (and adults!) shift into social engagement

Play can signal safety

Play is functional… it’s how children learn about the world around them

Play and learning are intertwined. When children play, they are exploring working on social skills (like turn taking, social cues, prosocial behavior), cognitive skills (like problem solving, planning)

Play can help reduces stress

Play is an outlet for children to children to move, engage and manage big feelings

Play is meaning making

Play is part of healthy development

Play is soothing and regulating

Play helps build healthy brains & bodies

Play facilitates trust & relationship

Play supports resiliency

Play is complex

Play can support attachment between parent and child

Play is self-expression and exploration of thoughts, feelings & experiences