Not Packing Up in Play Therapy

The Importance of Not Making Children Pack Up After Play Therapy Sessions. 

With more than 20 years of experience as an Early Years Teacher, I was initially surprised by the concept of children not tidying up after play therapy sessions. However, my curiosity led me to explore the therapeutic reasons behind this practice during my studies in Play Therapy. Let me explain why it is important that children are not expected to tidy up after their play therapy sessions. Keep reading to discover the significance of this approach!

Play therapy is a specialized form of counseling that utilizes play to help children express themselves, process emotions, develop a sense of self and navigate challenging experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, play therapy recognizes the unique way in which children communicate and engage with the world around them. One distinctive aspect of play therapy is the intentional decision not to expect children pack up their play materials after a session. 

Creating a Safe and Consistent Space:

Play therapy relies on creating a safe and consistent space for children to explore and express themselves freely. By allowing them to leave their play materials in place, therapists maintain a sense of continuity and security for the child. This consistent environment helps build trust and encourages the child to open up over time.

Respecting the Child’s Autonomy:

Children often have limited control over their environments, especially when facing challenging situations. Allowing them to leave their play materials untouched after a session respects their autonomy. This practice sends a message that their choices and expressions are valid, fostering a sense of empowerment and control.

Symbolic Representation of Unfinished Business:

Play therapists understand that children may not always resolve complex emotions or experiences in a single session. Leaving the play materials as they are symbolically represents the ongoing nature of their emotional journey. It communicates that the therapeutic process is a gradual one, allowing the child the time and space they need for healing and self-discovery.

Encouraging Reflection and Integration:

Leaving play materials undisturbed invites the child to reflect on their experiences outside of the therapy session. This reflection is crucial for integrating the insights gained during therapy into their daily lives. The continuity between sessions supports a more natural flow of emotions and self-discovery.

Reducing Anxiety and Pressure:

For many children, the idea of packing up after a session may introduce unnecessary stress or anxiety. By eliminating this expectation, play therapists create a low-pressure environment that encourages the child to engage with the therapeutic process without the burden of immediate closure.

I hope this shines a light on why play therapists intentionally avoid making children pack up after sessions to foster a safe, respectful, and consistent therapeutic space. This approach recognizes the unique needs of children and promotes an environment where they can freely express themselves, explore their emotions, and gradually navigate the complexities of their experiences.

Play Therapy and not packing up: Inspiring Play: Child Play Therapy, Sunshine Coast

If you have further questions, reach out to Inspiring Play: Child Play Therapy & Early Intervention Service, Sunshine Coast, Queensland.