Did you know that play changes our brains? Yes, PLAY changes our brains. As a child therapist, I hear from parents almost daily that their children are not listening, following directions, or healthily managing their emotions. And my response to this is always of course they are not!  

We are not born knowing how to be respectful, problem-solve, or manage our anger. These are all learned behaviors that our children learn by doing and observing. This is where play therapy comes in! When working with a play therapist, our children use play to move from the lower part of their brain, which causes the fight or flight response (this is what happens when a child or teen gets upset when a limit is set!). It helps them enter the brain’s upper areas responsible for problem-solving, empathy, emotion regulation, and logic.   

During play therapy, children learn that they have control of their bodies and can make choices about how they respond to their environment. Children are given permission to explore their world, which creates new pathways in their brain that helps tell them they are capable of mastering tasks!

Play is a universal language, and the benefits of play are endless. Here are just a few benefits of play therapy (and play in general!):

  • Increased confidence
  • Improved social skills
  • Empathy
  • Learning to express and identify emotions
  • Developing coping skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Improved family relationships
  • Respecting and accepting themselves and others
  • Taking responsibility for their choices
  • Managing impulses
  • Regulating emotions
  • And so many more

Additionally, play therapy can benefit individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and diagnoses. Play can help expand our imagination, improve relationships, and build trust and connection with others. The next time you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated (perhaps because your children are not following directions!) I encourage you to take some time and play.  

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to play, and play can look different for everyone! This could look like having a dance party, playing a board game, decorating cookies, or coloring. Invite your family members to join in and share in the laughter–your nervous system and brain will thank you!

Please reach out if you or a family member are struggling with mental health concerns and think play therapy may be beneficial. There is help, and hope starts here at Family Counseling Service. Contact us online or call us at 630-844-2662.