How to Let the Child Lead in Game Play: Child-Centered Examples and Guidance

Oct 4, 2024

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Theodore in the UK, who is preparing his playroom and wondering about incorporating games like Jenga and card games into child-centered play therapy. Theodore asks how to balance allowing children to lead the game while still playing “for real.” I discuss the importance of letting children set the rules, even if they differ from the traditional way the game is played, and how to follow their lead without imposing any expectations or predetermined structure.

I explain that when children create their own rules, they are playing “for real” in their minds. The key is to follow their cues and let them decide what “real” looks like in that moment. I also provide guidance on handling situations when a child may want to play a game by the traditional rules, as well as how to navigate moments when the child gets frustrated or confused about game rules. Ultimately, it’s about maintaining the child-centered approach, allowing the child to be in control, and using “I wonder” statements to gather information about how the child wants to play.

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References:

Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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