Creative and Effective Play Therapy Activities for Children

Jan 13

At Live Full Therapy, we understand that play is a child’s most natural way of expressing themselves and processing the world around them.

Through play therapy, children can explore their emotions, work through challenges, and build resilience—all while engaging in activities that feel safe and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional, incorporating play therapy activities into a child’s life can have a profound impact on their emotional growth.

Below are some ideas for activities to help you along!

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses play as a medium for children to communicate and resolve emotional or behavioral challenges. Unlike traditional talk therapy, it allows children to express their thoughts and feelings through creative activities that align with their developmental stage.

5 Engaging Play Therapy Activities:

1.) Sand Tray Therapy

What it involves: Children use miniature figures to create scenes in a sand tray, representing their feelings and experiences.
Why it works: This activity provides a non-verbal way for children to express their emotions and explore solutions to challenges.
How we use it: At Live Full Therapy, we guide children gently as they build and reflect on their scenes, helping them gain insights in a way that feels natural and safe.

2.) Drawing & Art Activities

What it involves: Children use crayons, markers, or paints to create artwork that reflects their feelings and experiences..
Why it works: Art provides an outlet for self-expression, especially for children who may struggle to put their emotions into words.
Ideas to try: Ask children to draw their "safe place" or "how they feel today," then discuss their creations in a curious and supportive way.

3.) Role-Playing with Puppets

What it involves: Children act out scenarios using puppets or dolls.
Why it works: Role-playing allows children to process difficult experiences, practice problem-solving, and build empathy.
When it’s helpful: This activity is particularly effective for working through social challenges or understanding different perspectives.

4.) Emotion Charades

What it involves: Children pick cards with different emotions and act them out for others to guess.
Why it works: It helps children recognize and label emotions in themselves and others, building emotional intelligence.
Pro tip: Use this game to discuss situations that might trigger these emotions and brainstorm coping strategies.

5.) Therapeutic Board Games

What it involves: Games like "The Ungame" or custom-designed activities that include questions or scenarios focused on emotions and problem-solving.
Why it works: Structured play can help children build trust, practice turn-taking, and discuss topics they may find challenging to bring up spontaneously.

The Benefits of Play Therapy for Children

Play therapy offers children a safe space to:

Communicate emotions in the way they know how - through play.
Explore their emotions without judgment.
Build coping strategies for challenges like anxiety, grief, or changes in the family.
Enhance their communication and social skills.
Foster self-esteem and resilience.

How Play Therapy is Tailored at Live Full Therapy

At Live Full Therapy in Nashville, we meet every child where they are. Our therapists blend creativity with evidence-based approaches, ensuring that play therapy sessions are both effective and engaging. Whether it’s through structured activities or open-ended exploration, we help children feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Let’s Play, Heal, and Grow Together

If you believe your child could benefit from play therapy, we’re here to help. Our compassionate therapists specialize in creating a safe and nurturing environment for children to thrive. Contact Live Full Therapy today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our approach to healing through play.

LET'S CHAT

CONNECT WITH A THERAPIST:

Meet Our Nashville Therapists