Play or sand therapy is recognized as a treatment of choice in school, mental health, developmental, hospital, residential, and recreational settings, with patients of any age. Therapists may help children learn more effective behaviors when they have emotional or social skills deficits. Play therapy may be used to encourage cognitive development and give insight. It is known to modify dysfunctional thinking in the child. Play therapy differs from regular play because the therapist can help children address and often resolve their problems. Play therapy builds on the natural way children learn about their relationships and about themselves. Through play therapy, children can better communicate with others, express themselves, control behavior, increase problem-solving skills, and learn of ways to relate to others. Play provides a psychological distance from problems and permits expression of feelings and thoughts.

Children are referred for play therapy to settle anxiety, sadness, and even depression. Sometimes children have gotten into bad habits and are even expected to be “the bad kid” which robs them of self-esteem and adds to the problem. Play and sand therapy can be helpful tools to help children sort through issues of divorce, anger, bullying, grief/loss, sibling matters, and other adjustment disorders. They may act out at home, with friends, and even at school. Play therapy allows trained therapists, to assess and understand children. It helps the child feel that the 50-minute session flew by and that they do not necessarily have to talk the whole time. It is useful in helping children cope with difficult emotions and find answers to problems. Play or sand therapy is appropriate for children ages 3 through 12 years old. Each session varies in length but typically lasts about 30 to 50 minutes. Sessions are usually held every week or bi-weekly depending on many factors.

Possible objectives: More responsible for behaviors. Solutions to problems. Respect of others. Expression of emotion. Learn new social skills. Increased self-esteem. Reduced anger/outbursts. Improved mood. Decreased anxiety. Communication techniques that work.