Play Therapy Techniques: When Toys are More than Toys Dianna Sawyers, MSW, LCSW
Today’s Learning Objectives Discuss how in play therapy to use standard toys in new, creative, and practical ways Learn how to utilize a mobile play space Identify how to pick an appropriate intervention based on play therapy theory, toy selection, and desired goals
Topics to be Discussed Using the classic toy list with new enthusiasm Making the best of a mobile play space Using the classic toys to address a variety of clients and client needs Falling in love with your toys again
Same Toy, New Game Toys change with every client Allow clients to engage in healing play Yesterday’s villain and today’s hero- your reaction matters when a child selects a toy
Same Toy, Same Game You just played Candy Land for 8 hours!!! What if tomorrow is the same??? What to do when a client is stuck with a theme/toy- Why does this happen Actively attempting to resolve a conflict- watch for small signs of progress Fear of progress- how to help explore the play room in a safe way Did you miss something?
When You Change a Toy Is Warning Needed!?! Did you try it first? Is it going to work the way you want/need/thought? What happens next session?
Transforming Games for Older Children Relationship building Changing focus of the game from winning to teamwork Building self-esteem Promoting healthy choices and decision making skills
The Mobile Toy Room, Making it Work, and Theory based Toy Selection What should guide your toy selection? What happens when you don’t have something Taking ownership of your toys Making your toys work for you
Analytical Play Toy List Drawing materials Doll and clothes Blanket Games Balls Doll house and families Blocks Current Action Figures Soldiers Puppets Holding space for collected works
Child Centered Play Toy List Crayons Newsprint Blunt Scissors Clay Popsicle Sticks Transparent tape Nursing Bottle Doll Plastic dishes Bendable nondescript figure Doll family, house, and furniture Mask Rubber Knife Dart Gun Hand cuffs Soldiers Car and airplane Puppets Rope 2 telephones Costume Jewelry
Cognitive Behavioral Dolls Puppets Action Figures Art Materials Materials needed for Directive Activities
You, the therapist Understanding and owning your theory Importance of mentoring relationship