We offer a range of services which support parents and children together. These are briefly explained below.
Parent-Child Attachment Play is a gentle 10 step play based approach aimed at improving the attachment quality of the parent-child relationship using attachment mechanisms and child-oriented play. Suitable for parents/carers of children aged 3-15 years. Practitioners work directly with the parents, supporting them to bring positive relationship changes into the family home by empowering the parents/carers as change agents. (Debi Maskell-Graham, bigtoeslittletoes.org)
Theraplay is a child and family therapy for building and enhancing attachment, self-esteem, trust in others, and joyful engagement. It is based on the natural patterns of playful, healthy interaction between parent and child and is personal, physical, and fun. Theraplay interactions focus on four essential qualities found in parent-child relationships: Structure, Engagement, Nurture, and Challenge. The Theraplay therapist guides the parent and child through playful, fun games, developmentally challenging activities, and tender, nurturing activities. The sessions create an active, emotional connection between the child and parent or caregiver. The very act of engaging each other in this way helps the parent regulate the child’s behaviour and communicate boundaries, safety, love and joy.
Filial Play Coaching offers parents and carers the opportunity to develop their play skills to strengthen relationships, transform behaviours and enhance their child’s well-being. By using principles of non-directive Play Therapy, the Filial Play coach will motivate the parent or carer in a one-to-one, relaxed environment and support them to apply 4 key skills (boundary setting, consistency/predictability, focusing/noticing and reflecting) to everyday family life through play.
Filial Therapy is a form of family therapy. It harnesses the power of Play Therapy to help families forge closer, more cohesive relationships. Practitioners train and supervise parents or caregivers as they conduct special non-directive play sessions with their own children. Through play, children express their feelings, master new skills, learn problem- solving skills, develop coping skills and understand their worlds. The therapist helps parents to understand their children’s motivations, feelings, intentions and behaviours in context through noticing and discussing play themes that arise in the play sessions.
