How to Use Play to Help Abused Kids
Play therapy is a modality often used with children. It can be used for a number of different experiences and conditions that children may endure. It is especially effective to use play with abused kids as it may help them to access and express their thoughts and feelings.Things You'll Need
- Private room
- Crayons
- Markers
- Clay
- Paints
- Dolls
- Stuffed animals
- Toy kitchen utensils
- Toy guns
- Blocks
Instructions
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Select a client who is between the ages of 3 and 8 (or cognitively at this age level) and has been physically or sexually abused. Obtain materials for the session and display them in a private office or room. They should be easily accessible to a child.
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Meet the child in the waiting room and lead him into the safe play space and introduce the child to the area. Each item should be in a specific place where it will remain every session. Inform the child of any limitations and of the length of the sessions (usually 30 to 60 minutes per session).
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Let the child decide with which item to play. Do not give any direction.
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Make mental observations and use reflections to engage the childl. If the child is not using words, then use words to describe what he is doing. If she is verbal, be accepting and supportive. Do not act stunned or correct the child. Keep in mind what you know of the child's history and look for signs of abuse and feelings about it in their play. For instance, does a little boy who has been physically abused pick the toy gun and play violently?
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Let the child know when the end of the session is approaching and be precise.
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When the session is over, advise the child that it is time to clean up and that your time is up for that day. The client must stop playing. As a way of closing, tell the him when you will next see him again for another session.
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Make notes about your session to assess the pyschological state of the child. These notes can be used to inform future play therapy sessions.
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