Talking about problems can be difficult for children. A child may not know the language to describe their feelings. They may not have the words to describe why they are behaving they way they are. A child may not be able to explain what they find difficult. In these cases, a child will find your question, ‘how are you feeling’ a little intrusive. They may feel ashamed they can’t answer your question.
In play therapy, children explore their feelings through media such as drawing. This takes the pressure off children. They are expressing themselves through their natural language of play. Inhibitions can fall away. Filters are removed. Children don’t sensor themselves. The drawings will contain the child’s energy, high or low. They aren’t trying to draw pretty pictures. When describing a child’s drawings be aware of symbols they contain. Some images maybe challenging to look at. Suddenly we are confronted by the child’s pain and vulnerability. They have invited us into their inner world.
As Psychotherapist Dennis McCarthy says, the difference between a beautiful picture and a symbolic one is in the latter’s containment of energy, which when accessed will bring about change.
I teach how to work with a child’s drawings and energy inside my new training course, Practical Play Therapy Training for Professionals which launches January 3rd. Register for the free webinar which introduces this training at hello@helpingchildrensmileagain.com.
