1:1 Animal Assisted Child Led Play Therapy
At Engage Playfully, we offer 1:1 Animal Assisted Child Led Play Therapy, out in the community environment, at schools, daycares, kinders or within the home.
Key Objectives of Animal Assisted Therapy
Emotional Support
The Play Therapist helps the child manage anxiety, stress, or emotional challenges by leveraging the calming presence of a therapy animal.
Social Skills Development
Through play and interaction with the animal, the child practices essential social skills such as sharing, communication, and teamwork with peers.
Coping Strategies
The Play Therapist introduces techniques for emotional regulation and coping, using the therapy animal as a focal point for these skills.
A Collaborative Approach
School Staff Engagement
The Play Therapist collaborates with teachers and support staff to ensure consistency in the child’s development and integrate strategies into the classroom environment.
Parental Involvement
Regular updates and strategies are shared with parents to reinforce the skills learned during therapy at home.
Play turns out to be so stunningly essential to childhood; it’s like love, sunshine, and broccoli all juiced together.
– Lenore Skenazy
Implementing Animal Assisted Child Led Play Therapy
Step 1
Initial Assessment
Initial Consultation with parents / guardians or teachers. The Play Therapist evaluates the child’s needs, strengths, and goals to tailor the therapy sessions effectively and develop a support plan.
Step 2
Structured Sessions
Regular sessions (e.g. weekly) are held in a comfortable environment where the child can interact with the therapy animal through play activities, fostering engagement.
Step 3
Play Activities
Activities might include obstacle courses, grooming, or simple commands, encouraging the child to communicate and engage positively. Non-directive child led play.
Step 4
Reflection and Feedback
The Play Therapist guides the child in reflecting on their feelings and experiences during the sessions, reinforcing learning and emotional understanding. Regular 4/6 weekly parent / guardian / teacher consultations and progress reports written when required.
Discover the Benefits
Increased Engagement
The presence of a therapy animal can enhance the child’s motivation and participation in therapy and school activities.
Improved Relationships
The therapy sessions help foster stronger relationships with peers and adults, enhancing the child’s social network.
Holistic Development
This approach addresses emotional, social, and behavioral needs, promoting overall well-being in the school setting.
Promote Emotional Health and Social Competence in Children
A Play Therapist can provide valuable support to:
- Schools (SMHF funding accepted)
- Individuals through NDIS
- Private Funding Clients