Supporting My Child Through Play Therapy:

January 8, 2025

Supporting My Child Through Play Therapy: A Parent's Journey with Flourish Community Solutions

As parents, our greatest wish is to see our children happy, healthy, and thriving. But when my child began struggling with emotions they couldn’t put into words, I felt helpless. Watching them retreat into themselves, I knew we needed help, but I wasn’t sure where to turn. That’s when I discovered Flourish Community Solutions and their transformative approach to play therapy. This journey has not only helped my child but has also opened my eyes to the power of play as a healing tool.

When a friend mentioned play therapy, I was intrigued but unsure what to expect. My first thought was, “How can playing help my child manage their emotions?” It sounded too simple. Yet, as I researched more and connected with the compassionate team at Flourish Community Solutions, I began to understand the profound science and intentionality behind play therapy.

Play therapy is not just about fun and games. It’s a carefully designed therapeutic approach where children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play. For young children who may not yet have the words to explain their struggles, this is a powerful outlet.

Taking the First Step

The first session at Flourish felt like a leap of faith. I was nervous—unsure of how my child would respond or if this was the right choice. But the therapist was incredible. They took time to connect with me as a parent, explaining the process and answering all my questions. This wasn’t just about my child; it was about empowering me as a caregiver to support their journey.

When my child walked into the playroom for the first time, their face lit up. The room was filled with toys, art supplies, and sensory tools, all carefully chosen to help children explore their emotions. It wasn’t long before I saw the magic of play therapy in action.

What I’ve Learned Along the Way

One of the most surprising parts of this journey has been how much I’ve learned as a parent. The therapists at Flourish didn’t just work with my child; they included me in the process. Through workshops, one-on-one discussions, and practical tools, I’ve gained insights into my child’s behavior that I never had before.

Here are some key lessons I’ve learned:

Behaviour is communication. When my child is overwhelmed, their actions often speak louder than words. Through therapy, I’ve learned to decode these signals and respond with empathy.
Play builds trust. Watching the therapist use toys to create a safe space for my child was eye-opening. I began incorporating play into our home routines, and it’s made a world of difference.
Healing takes time. Progress is not always linear, but each small breakthrough is worth celebrating.

The Benefits of Play Therapy

The changes I’ve seen in my child have been incredible. Play therapy has helped them:

Express emotions. My child is learning to identify and share how they’re feeling, whether through drawing, storytelling, or play scenarios.
Build confidence. As they navigate challenges in the playroom, they’re gaining the resilience to face real-world situations.
Strengthen relationships. Their ability to connect with me, their peers, and their teacher has improved dramatically.

Beyond these benefits, I’ve noticed a lightness in my child – a sense of joy that had been missing for too long.

A Supportive Community

Flourish Community Solutions has been more than a therapy provider; they’ve become a part of our village. The team’s warmth, expertise, and dedication have been a constant source of encouragement. Knowing I have a trusted partner in supporting my child has made this journey less daunting.

Our play therapy journey is ongoing, but the progress we’ve made so far fills me with hope. I’m grateful for the tools, insights, and connections I’ve gained along the way. Most importantly, I’m grateful to see my child flourish — embracing their emotions, growing in confidence, and rediscovering the joy of being a child.

If you’re a parent or carer wondering if play therapy might help your child, I encourage you to take the leap. With the support of organisations like Flourish Community Solutions, you don’t have to face this journey alone. Together, we can help our children thrive — one step, and one playful moment, at a time.

– Joanne (Proud Mum of 3 warriors)

Supporting My Child Through Play Therapy: