What is Child-Centered Play Therapy?

What is Child-Centered Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the child. Supporting the child in the development process is only one of the goals. Child-centered play therapy should be done by professionals. The methods given by authorized persons who know the process and can communicate with the child are important for both the child and the parents. Experiential learning and non-formal education techniques are also transferred to the child with child-focused play therapy.

What are the Goals of Child-Centered Play Therapy?

The purpose of play therapy can be listed as follows:
• Show the child experiential learning methods
• Show the child non-formal education techniques
• To follow the development process of the child
• Monitoring his cognitive development
• To increase the child’s expressive power
• To ensure that the child does not suppress himself emotionally and reaches satisfaction
It is among the goals of play therapy. In this process, there is also a therapist next to the child, and the child begins to transfer his inner world and thoughts to the therapist without being aware of it.

At What Age Is Child-Centered Play Therapy Applied to Children?

Studies on play therapy age vary. If child-centered play therapy is performed, the age range mentioned here starts from 2 years and rises up to 11 years old. Child-focused play therapy applied in this age range is applied to younger people and adults with different methods. Children are the people who play therapy is done. Especially if there is child-centered play therapy, the group where the therapy is given will be children.

Which Toys Are Used in Play Therapy?

Play therapy toys are mostly parts that exist in real life and are used in everyday life. It consists of kitchen utensils, family items, telephones, tools and similar items. During child-focused play therapy, different toys (guns, soldiers, play dough, animals, puppets, etc.) are also included and all are used to resolve the child’s emotional state.