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Guided Imagery Goals for Children

The goals for guided imagery with children are very similar to those with adults. While a child's life experiences and challenges are different, guided imagery is still used to assist in both physiological and psychological issues.

  1. What is guided Imagery?

    • Guided imagery is a type of therapy where the patient or child imagines something to help with real-life problems. The thought behind this therapy, which has roots in ancient civilizations, is that your body has a reaction to sensory experiences created in your mind. Sensory experiences do not have to be images, but can also refer to sound, smell, taste or touch. Although the type of guided imagery used will depend on your specific goal, the practice will generally involve teaching your child to go into deep relaxation and imagining and focusing on something. While it sounds a bit hocus-pocus like, there have been numerous studies since the 1970s proving the effectiveness of guided imagery in both adults and children.

    Physical Ailments

    • Guided imagery has been used in children to aide in treatment of all sorts of physical ailments ranging from scrapes and bruises to chronic headaches, eating disorders and cancer. This therapy is not meant to be a substitute for a physical or modern medical care, but rather aid in treatment. This type of guided imagery usually involves your child imagining their ailment healing and focusing on that thought for a length of time. If your child has a serious illness and you would like to explore guided imagery, consult with your doctor.

    Psychological Issues

    • Perhaps a more common use of guided imagery with children is for a wide array of psychological issues. Common issues treated with guided imagery in children include stress management, lack of motivation, lack of self-esteem, troubles with school work and general behavior problems. Guided imagery for these types of problems normally involves going to a "special place" or imaginary helpers. For example, your child may imagine that Einstein is helping with his homework.

      There are a variety of books and other products on the market to help you get your child started with guided imagery therapy. However, if your child has serious behavioral problems, then you may consider consulting a psychologist about your choice of guided imagery and allow them to give you guidance.

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