Play to Support Mental Wellbeing in Childhood.

Play and Creative Arts Therapy is a tried and tested intervention which supports children experiencing difficulties - 77-84% of children show improvement in these difficulties after engaging in play and creative arts therapies delivered by a registered Play therapist (PTUK, 2026)

The postive impact of play on children's mental health is something that all parents and carers can be part of.  Maintenance of mental wellbeing is as important as seeking support when things become difficult - this is true for all of us, children included.

Whether you are looking to support a child after Play Therapy has finished, or to maintain good levels of wellbeing in children who have never been to play therapy, there are some simple ways you can engage with them in their natural language: play.

Giving your child focused 1:1 attention could take the form of a walk together, a creative or playful activity or some baking together. It all depends what you both enjoy doing.

Letting your child take the lead builds autonomy and confidence.

Follow your child’s ideas instead of making suggestions.  If they make mistakes, let it go - this is time for connection rather than education. Allow them to make up their own rules to games or ditch Lego instructions!  Notice rather than instruct: “You’re building a very tall tower.”  “The puzzle pieces have turned into a road - I wonder where it’s going!”.

Joining in pretend play supports connection and helps children process experiences.

Play a character in their story. Let them assign you a role - even if it feels silly! For example: Let your child be the “teacher” or “boss” and you follow their lead.

Move your bodies!

This can reduces anxiety and improves mood through movement.  Rough-and-tumble play (within safe boundaries).  Dancing, chasing games, pillow fights.  Outdoor play whenever possible.

It is important to stop if your child becomes overwhelmed or dysregulated.

Creative Play allows non-verbal expression

Drawing, painting, music, or storytelling.  Instead of interpreting, ask open questions. “Tell me about your picture” instead of “Is that you feeling sad?”  “I wonder how Teddy felt when that happened in your story...”

Go for a mindful walk with your child

Slow down and share attention without a sense of hurry.  Let them stop, wander, crouch, or change direction: you are exploring rather than going somewhere. 

Use your senses:  “What colors can you spot?”  “What’s something tiny you see?” “How many different sounds can we hear?”  Feel bark, leaves, wind, sun, rain.  Smell flowers, grass, rain...You could collect some natural objects to use in creative activities.

Remember: Quality not quantity is the important thing - 10 minutes can make all the difference!