In our constant efforts to raise a kinder, gentler Sawyer, I have retreated back to my graduate school training in Play Therapy. Now, much of Play Therapy is really common sense. A therapist will engage in various types of play with a child, constantly giving unconditional positive regard for all appropriate behavior, consistently tracking and reflecting feelings and actions so that the child feels as though he or she is the center of the universe. This type of Play Therapy would be referred to as "child-centered" and is a favorite of play therapists, especially with young children.
When a therapist sends a child home from therapy with his or her caregiver, the therapist might suggest some "Filial Therapy"; a process by which the parent engages in activities similar to those mentioned above. This type of therapy is said to build trust and help strengthen the bonds between parent (or caregiver) and child. This is what I am trying with Sawyer. She gets to be the center of the universe, as often as possible from 12:30 to 1pm daily. This type of therapy helps parent and child relate to each other ONLY over things that are fun such as playing dolls or painting. Sawyer loves it. I love it. We are bonding. The goal is that our bond will strengthen and the outcome will be deeper trust, love and of course: BETTER BEHAVIOR! I'll keep my fingers crossed daily for that wonderful half hour. Here are some shots of the projects we created today. We especially like to glue (Sawyer says boo) things that are edible.
When a therapist sends a child home from therapy with his or her caregiver, the therapist might suggest some "Filial Therapy"; a process by which the parent engages in activities similar to those mentioned above. This type of therapy is said to build trust and help strengthen the bonds between parent (or caregiver) and child. This is what I am trying with Sawyer. She gets to be the center of the universe, as often as possible from 12:30 to 1pm daily. This type of therapy helps parent and child relate to each other ONLY over things that are fun such as playing dolls or painting. Sawyer loves it. I love it. We are bonding. The goal is that our bond will strengthen and the outcome will be deeper trust, love and of course: BETTER BEHAVIOR! I'll keep my fingers crossed daily for that wonderful half hour. Here are some shots of the projects we created today. We especially like to glue (Sawyer says boo) things that are edible.
I'm pleased to know that you are applying the principles and methods of Filial in your own life. Child-centered play therapy and filial therapy is developmentally based. One doesn't require a reason or concern to apply its principles, methods and structure in everyday life. Your child will improve her confidence, responsibilty, empathy and security while fostering more intimacy and trust between the two of you.
ReplyDeleteI'm sharing this with you because my passsion for Filial has grown stronger each year since I first encountered this respectful approach. Your effort make me feel very good.
Barry Ginsberg