WHAT IS ACTIVITY THERAPY?
Activity therapy, which is for children ages 10 and up, combines games, art, books and craft activities to create a comfortable environment for children to discuss and express their experiences and concerns. Older children are typically capable of verbally expressing their feelings, but often need some form of activity to feel comfortable doing so. This approach to therapy uses a child's natural desire to play in order to learn and work out their issues. It also offers the child a sense of control in their world which aids in alleviating maladaptive behaviors.
WHY DOES MY CHILD NEED ACTIVITY THERAPY?
Most kids experience difficulty coping at some time during childhood. In return, many children exhibit behaviors that concern their parent(s) or teachers. Generally, if you, your child’s teacher or your child’s physician are concerned about your child’s behavior or adjustment, play or activity therapy is likely the recommended approach in helping your child.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM ACTIVITY THERAPY?
There is more freedom in the therapy room than is allowed in other areas of the child’s life. During the therapy time, every thought and feeling, and almost all actions of the child, are accepted. This freedom is necessary so the child will feel accepted, safe, and trust enough to reveal their fears and problems. There is no such thing as wrong or bad behavior in therapy; however, limits and consequences are set and enforced. Children are not “pumped” for information but are instead safely allowed to work through their problems at their own pace.
HOW OFTEN AND HOW LONG WILL MY CHILD NEED TO COME?
Children grow and develop best when they have structure and consistency. Therefore, in order for therapy to be helpful, it is imperative that the sessions be consistent, that is, at least once a week and preferably on the same day and at the same time. Therapy is a process of the therapist building a trusting relationship with a child, the child revealing and/or working through their problems, coming to a resolution, practicing new skills and preparing for goodbye with the therapist. Every child grows and changes at different pace; therefore, the length of time needed in activity therapy will vary according to individual personalities, severity of trauma, and home and life circumstances. Behavior and mood changes are normal and expected throughout the process of therapy. At times, it may seem as though things are getting worse and not better. Understand this is normal and it helpful to communicate this to the therapist.
Saying goodbye in the therapy process is an important event for your child. If ending therapy is being considered by either you or your child, it is important to discuss this with me so that your child has an opportunity to end the relationship.
Recommended reading for parents:
Positive Discipline
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk
Recommended reading for kiddos
(and parents too!):
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
A Volcano in My Tummy: Helping Children to Handle Anger
Hands Are Not for Hitting
When Mom and Dad Divorce: An Elf-Help Book for Kids
Related Links:
Association for Play Therapy -- Why Play Therapy?
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