Activities to Make Children Counselling More Productive

Various individuals ascribe to different theories surrounding counselling; however, what usually comes to mind is two people engaged in intent conversation. However, it is important to realise that children find stationary activities difficult. This leads parents to wonder if counselling is a realistic option.

As a counsellor to young adults and children, I can assure parents that other counselling alternatives for children exist. This is because counselling is about helping a person work through whatever is happening on the inside. Because children often have trouble expressing themselves in words, creating an environment where they can express themselves creatively is ideal. The counsellor’s task is to make an atmosphere in which the youngster feels safe to work through challenges. Below are some practical examples of how such sessions are conducted:

Youngsters attempting to sort through feelings surrounding the separation of their parents may decide to play with a doll’s house. The child rearranges the furniture whilst internally working out the changes in his or her actual home. Over time, as the child becomes happy with the new arrangement in the doll’s house, it may make it easier to also accept changes at home.

Another child who had to grow up too rapidly may be drawn to tactical materials and use such tools to engage in activities associated with a younger age. By playing this way, the youngster can satisfy previously unmet needs and eventually move on. Children experiencing anxiety may find playing with sand soothing, as such activity has a calming effect.

Throughout my career I have heard of and witnessed countless examples of children’s counselling and the major differences it made in their lives. Although no guarantees or miracle cures exist, I have seen gradual changes for the positive when children participate in sessions such as those listed in this blog post.

As Plato said, more can be discovered about an individual in an hour of play than a year of conversing. Additionally, Friedrich Froebel stated that play is the free expression of the soul, and therefore the highest expression of childhood development. Therefore, it is unwise to believe your son or daughter is too young for counselling. Find an experienced therapist and allow your child to work through various difficulties and do not hesitate to contact us with any questions concerning children’s counselling.