Play
In Brief
Outlet for creativity and experimentation. Space to emulate and practice skills. Linked to intellectual growth.
Quotes
“Play is voluntary, flexible, and it’s fun. Like Play-Doh, it can be yours for life.” ~ K. Hirsch-Pasek
“Play is the highest form of research.” ~ A. Einstein
“In every real man a child is hidden that wants to play.” ~ F. Nietzsche
“Play is as important as love and work.” ~ S. Freud
“The day we stop playing is the day we stop learning.” ~ W. Glasser
Playing / Children
In Brief
Play is so basic to childhood that children in prisons and concentration camps instinctively organize games.
Quotes
“Bird’s fly, fish swim, and children play.” ~ G. Landreth
“For children, play is exceedingly serious and important.” ~ Mr. Rogers
“The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful.” ~ e.e. cummings
“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” ~ D. Ackerman
Play Therapy / Children
In Brief
Used to freely express repressed thoughts and emotions, Primarily age 3-12.
Quotes
“Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” ~ K. Redfield-Jamison
“Play is the free expression of what’s in a child’s soul.” ~ F. Froebel
Resources
Websites
A4pt.org
Verywellmind.com
Smileprojectempowers.com
Simplepractice.com
Movies
Big Hero
Spiderman
Superman
Captain Marvel
The Lego Batman Movie
Books
Child-Centered Play Therapy
~ R. VanFleet et al.
Play Therapy – The Art of Relationship
~ G. Landreth
Therapy Pros
Encourages expression and relaxes fears and defenses. Children are in their element.
Therapy Cons
Doesn’t directly deal with trauma or issues. Can be more of a distraction than relief.
