A New Year, A New Beginning: How Play Therapy Can Support Your Child’s Emotional World

A new year often brings fresh hopes for our children, that they’ll feel more confident, calmer, more connected, and better understood. As parents, we carry so much love and so many quiet wishes for the little humans in our care. Play therapy offers a gentle, evidence-based way to support children’s emotional growth, especially for those navigating autism, neurodivergence, anxiety, trauma, or big feelings that don’t yet have words. 

So what is play therapy?

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, child-centred therapeutic approach that allows children to express their inner world through play rather than words. Research consistently shows that children communicate emotions, experiences, fears and hopes symbolically through play. Using approaches such as Child-Centred Play Therapy, Filial Therapy and emotional coaching frameworks like Tuning into Kids®, Inspiring Play supports children to develop emotional regulation, resilience, self-esteem and secure relationships, the foundations for lifelong mental health.

Who can play therapy support?

Play therapy is particularly effective for children who are neurodivergent, autistic, highly sensitive, anxious, or who have experienced trauma, change or loss. It also supports children navigating school transitions, friendship difficulties, family separation, emotional overwhelm and behavioural challenges. Importantly, therapy is not about “fixing” children, it is about understanding and supporting them. When children feel safe, seen and emotionally held, their behaviour begins to shift naturally.

What outcomes can families expect, and how long does it take?

Parents often ask, “Will one session make a difference?” Honestly, play therapy is not a quick fix. Meaningful emotional change happens through consistent, relational work over time. Research suggests most children show progress within 20 sessions, depending on their needs, family involvement and developmental stage. Growth may look like fewer emotional explosions, improved sleep, increased confidence, stronger relationships, better communication and greater resilience. Change is rarely linear and that’s okay. He

aling unfolds gently.

As you step into this new year, consider what emotional support your child might need to thrive, not just academically, but in their nervous system, and social and emotional development. When we invest early in emotional wellbeing, we are building the foundation for a lifetime of mental health. If your child is struggling, you do not need to carry this alone. Reaching out for support is one of the bravest and most loving things you can do as a parent.

If you are wondering whether play therapy could support your child this year, I warmly encourage you to reach out. We are more than happy to help. 

Inspiring Play: Play Therapy Sunshine Coast