"My child barely speaks." "She cries a lot but doesn’t say why." As a certified play therapist, these are some of the most common concerns I hear from parents. While it’s easy to think it’s just a personality trait, often what we see is not a lack of emotion—but a lack of expression.
What’s Really Behind the Behavior?
Many children don’t yet have the language skills to explain how they feel. Their emotions show up as meltdowns, silence, or even aggression. That’s where play becomes a powerful tool: it’s their natural language.
Why Play Therapy Works
- Children express emotions more comfortably through toys than words.
- A “crying doll” or a “crashing car” might represent deep sadness or frustration.
- Therapists interpret play behavior to understand a child’s internal world.
Does Your Child Need Play Therapy?
Watch out for these signs:
- Low energy or withdrawal from activities
- Frequent outbursts or tantrums
- Strong jealousy between siblings
- Refusal to talk about school or social life
Case Example: Silence That Spoke Volumes
One child I worked with refused to speak in the first two sessions. But during play, he constantly crashed toy cars into each other. When I asked, "Why are they crashing?" he whispered, "They’re angry." That moment was the breakthrough—and the beginning of healing.
What Parents Can Do at Home
Instead of saying “Stop crying,” try “I can see you’re upset.” Empathy helps children feel understood and safe. Play therapy isn’t about fixing a child. It’s about helping them feel seen, heard, and supported.
Want to Learn More?
- [Case Story] Late Talker or Emotional Block? How to Tell the Difference
- [Parenting Tips] How to Support Emotional Growth at Home
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