'Play Therapy' promoted for child health, in wake of fires, floods
Published on 24 February, 2009
In the wake of this year's natural disasters, the Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA) annual conference is focused on 'working together for child health through play therapy: attachment and family relationships'...
The conference will be held in Launceston, Tasmania, from August 26-28.
CQUniversity PhD graduate Judi Parson is Chair of the organising committee for what is Australia's leading forum for Play Therapy professionals. Details at: http://www.appta2009.com/
Dr Parson said her association also provides support and professional development to others who work with traumatised children and who would value integrating play therapy techniques.
The keynote speakers will be Texan Mary Ellen Sherrill, whose expertise is in complex trauma associated with child sexual abuse, author of Parenting for a Peaceful World Robin Grille and inspirational speaker Robyn Moore.
Dr Parson said many Australian children may have directly experienced exposure to disasters this year.
"They must learn to cope with pain due to physical burns and/or emotional suffering associated with the death of family members, friends, neighbours and pets," she said.
"Children may have also indirectly witnessed graphic images on television or heard adults talking about the bushfires/floods and how lives have been dramatically altered.
"Children deal with trauma by acting it out in their play. Thus, play is a window into the child's thoughts and feelings.
"Play Therapy is a powerful medium that creates an opportunity for the child to express and communicate through play. Children use the toys to show how they feel about themselves, others and life events. Children learn to heal themselves in play therapy within a safe, trusting and therapeutic relationship."
Dr Parson said research supports the effectiveness of play therapy for children experiencing a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioural, and learning problems leading from divorce, death, relocation, hospitalization, chronic illness, stressful experiences, physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, and natural disasters.
Children who have experienced trauma may develop themes in their play, such as:
- Powerlessness/helplessness
- Grief and loss
- Fear/Isolation
- Aggression/rage
- Blame
- Betrayal
- Abandonment
- Harm/danger
"Play therapy is highly regarded among health care professionals working with children," Dr Parson said.