What Is Play Therapy—And How Can I Use It at Home as a Parent?

“Play is the child’s language, and toys are their words.”

— Dr. Garry Landreth. 

By: Haylie Merchen

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Soft toys and colorful blocks create a welcoming setting for play therapy, encouraging expression and creativity in children.

If you’ve ever watched your child line up toy animals in a perfect row, act out an argument with dolls, or bury their favorite stuffed animal in a pile of blocks, you’ve witnessed something powerful: a child processing their world through play.

For kids, play isn’t just about fun—it’s how they communicate, learn, and heal. 

So… What Is Play Therapy? 

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate form of therapy that helps children express thoughts and feelings through play, rather than just words. Most young children don’t have the vocabulary to say, “I’m feeling overwhelmed at school,” or “I’m scared since Mom and Dad’s divorce.” But they can show it in their play. A superhero who loses their powers… a doll who cries when left alone… these aren’t just games. They’re windows into what your child is experiencing internally. In a therapy setting, play is intentional and guided.

Therapists offer carefully chosen toys, games, and art materials that allow children to: 

• Explore emotions 

• Work through trauma 

• Build coping skills 

• Improve emotional regulation 

Over time, children feel more understood, safer in their world, and more confident in themselves. 

Can I Use Play Therapy Techniques at Home? 

Yes! While a trained professional should facilitate clinical play therapy, parents can use therapeutic play to support their child’s emotional development. Some of the most powerful healing happens not in the therapy room—but in the everyday moments at home—with a parent who is attuned, present, and willing to play. 

How Can I Implement Play Techniques at Home? 

Create “Special Play Time.” 

Set aside time a few times a week for uninterrupted, child-led play—just you and your child. No phones. No correcting. No teaching. Just follow their lead. If they want to stack blocks and knock them down ten times in a row—go with it. This kind of play builds connection and confidence. It also helps your child feel seen and in control, especially if their world feels uncertain or overwhelming. 

Reflect, Don’t Direct

During play, try to reflect what you see, instead of steering the activity. This helps children feel heard and respected. 

Instead of: 

“Let’s make the doll happy!” 

Try: 

“Your doll looks sad. I wonder what happened.” 

This shift builds emotional awareness and trust. It helps your child make sense of what they’re feeling—without judgment or pressure. 

Bring in Emotion-Based Toys and Activities 

You don’t need fancy materials.

Simple tools can go a long way: 

• Art supplies to draw “worry monsters” or “happy hearts.” 

• A “feelings jar” to write down and share emotions at bedtime 

• Books like The Invisible String.

The goal isn’t to analyze the play—it’s to offer space for emotions to safely unfold. 

When Should I Consider Professional Play Therapy? 

While at-home play is incredibly valuable, some situations call for additional support.

Consider working with a licensed play therapist if your child is experiencing:

• Frequent meltdowns, aggression, or withdrawal 

• Major life changes (divorce, grief, relocation) 

• Trauma or anxiety 

• Difficulty expressing emotions—even through play 

Therapy offers a safe, structured space for children to explore their inner world, with a trained guide who can gently help them process what’s going on. 

You Don’t Have to Be a Therapist to Be Therapeutic 

The truth is, you already have the most important tool: your relationship with your child.

You don’t have to “fix” their feelings or get everything right. What children need most is a safe, consistent presence—a parent who listens, reflects, and shows up. Yes, part of our role as parents is preparing kids for the real world. But sometimes the most healing thing we can do is accept their invitation into their world. 

So the next time your child invites you to join their imaginary game, take a breath, leave your to-do list behind, and follow their lead!