Early interaction between a parent and child is crucial in aiding
thedevelopment of achild.According to theTheraplay Institute,
“Theraplay
®
is an engaging, playful, relationship-focused
treatment method that is interactive, physical, personal, and
fun. Its principles are based on attachment theory, and model
after thehealthy, attuned interactionbetweenparents and their
children.
InTheraplay
®
, the therapist guides theparent andchild through
playful, engaging, developmentally challenging and nurturing
activities. The very act of engaging each other through this
manner helps the parent regulate the child’s behaviour and
communicate love, joy and safety to the child.
Thereare four dimensions inTheraplay
®
whichhelps theparent
to focus and attune the relationshipwithin.
Structure
Structured activities help the parent set limits and provide
order. Childrenwho suffers from trauma need consistency and
predictability to feel safe. This can be provided through the set
of boundaries and routine. This dimension is especially useful
for childrenwhoareoveractive, over stimulatedor whowant to
be in control.
Engagement
Engagement activitiesareused tohelp theparent connect with
his/her child. Children want to feel that parents understand
themand that you careenough toplaywith them. Engagement
is crucial for all children, especially for children who are
withdrawn or too rigidly structured.
Nurture
Nurturing activities are used to provide care, soothing
and comfort. Children need constant nurturing, especially
children who are traumatised. This gives children comfort
andprovidessafety.Theactivitiesmeet thechild’sunfulfilled
younger needs and helps build the inner representation
that the child is lovable and valued. Nurture is especially
useful for childrenwho are overactive, aggressive, pseudo
mature and avoids contact.
Challenge
Challengingactivitiesareused tosupportandencourage the
child to take risks and to learn. It is important for children to
bemotivated to learnnew thingsand to receive recognition
for what they do right. The activities also promotemastery
which improves confidence and competence. Challenge
activities are useful for children who are withdrawn, timid
or rigid.
If you are interested to knowmore about how Theraplay
®
can help improve your parent-child bond or believe your
child could benefit from it, email our play therapist or give
us a call:
or 6229 3755. We will be
happy to answer any questions that youmay have.
By JoanneNg
IntroducingTheraplay® :
PlayingwithaPurpose
Benefits ofTheraplay®
1. Deeper connectionwith
oneanother throughdaily
interactions
2. Heightened trust and
security
3. Funactivities that parents
can learn to implement
at home
4. Stronger bondswithin
theadult and child
relationship
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2
3
4
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