Sand Play

Provided on a 1-to-1 basis over the course of 12 weeks in 30 minute session. Using a sand tray with accompanying toys to create and tell a story of a child's choosing. This approach allows children to express and process their feelings in another way whilst also supporting communication.

By doing this, this encourages children to use their creativity to tell a story and process emotions they are internalising while in a safe space.

Sand play provides a non-verbal medium for children to express complex emotions that they might not be able to articulate. By shaping the sand and using miniature figures, children can symbolize their feelings, fears, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment. 

For children who have experienced trauma, sand play allows them to externalize their experiences in a controlled space. This helps them process traumatic events in a way that feels manageable. 

Sand play can encourage interaction, cooperation, and communication. Sharing the sand tray and collaborating on a scene can help children develop empathy and an understanding of their emotions. 

Creating something tangible in the sand gives children a sense of accomplishment. This can boost their self-esteem and help them feel more in control of their environment, which is particularly beneficial for children who feel powerless or overwhelmed. 

For children who have difficulty with verbal communication, sand play can serve as a bridge to more direct forms of communication. As they create scenes and stories, they often begin to talk about what they are doing, which can open up deeper conversations with the therapist.  

Sand play encourages creative thinking and imagination, as children can create endless scenarios and stories in the sand. This creative outlet can be especially valuable for children who might struggle with verbal expression.