Sorting Play Theme In Play Therapy

Oct 31, 2023

In this episode, we wrap up our exploration of the Control and Safety themes with a focus on ‘sorting play.’ I share an anecdote from my graduate school experience, illustrating what sorting play entails and its significance in a child’s play process. Sorting play involves categorizing toys, whether by size, type, or distinct categories like types of dinosaurs, etc. We explore the purposes behind sorting play, such as creating order in a chaotic world and reconciling opposing ideas. Additionally, I discuss the concept of emotional breaks and how they interlink with these sorting plays. As we conclude this theme, we gear up to venture into Safety Play, preparing to delve into five themes within that category. Thank you for joining me on this journey into child-centered play therapy.

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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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