Helping Children Heal Through Play Therapy

As parents and caregivers, few things are more painful than hearing a child say they’ve been hurt at school. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or social, these experiences can leave children feeling unsafe and unsure of how to express what they’re going through. For adults, the instinct is often to talk through the problem—but for kids, words aren’t always enough. That’s where play therapy becomes such a valuable tool.

Why Play Therapy Matters

Play is a child’s natural language. Through toys, art, and imagination, children can express feelings and experiences that may be too overwhelming or confusing to say out loud. Play therapy creates a safe, structured space where children can begin to process those experiences and build healthy coping strategies.

What Happens in Play Therapy

In sessions, a therapist uses play-based activities to help children:

• Share difficult feelings in ways that feel safe and natural

• Re-create experiences through symbolic play, giving them control over the narrative

• Learn problem-solving and self-regulation skills

• Strengthen self-esteem and resilience

For example, a child who has been hurt at school may use dolls, figures, or art to show what happened. The therapist gently supports the child in working through those emotions, offering reassurance and tools for healing.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers

When a child shares that they’ve been hurt, the first step is always to ensure their safety by addressing the situation directly with the school. Beyond immediate action, children also need emotional support to rebuild their sense of security. Parents and caregivers can:

• Listen with calm reassurance (“I believe you, and I’m here for you.”)

• Create predictable routines that help the child feel grounded

• Consider professional support like play therapy to help the child process their feelings in a healthy way

A Path Toward Healing

Play therapy does more than address one difficult event. It helps children develop resilience and confidence they’ll carry into the future. It gives them a voice, tools to cope, and the reassurance that they are not alone.

At Dukette Wellness Solutions, we know that children often need more than words to heal. Play therapy provides a bridge to emotional safety, helping kids process challenges while strengthening their ability to thrive.

If your child—or a child you love—has gone through something painful, play therapy can be a powerful step toward healing, resilience, and hope.