How to Play

Understanding how to incorporate play into therapy is a vital part of working in pediatrics. Grad school focuses on teaching anatomy, physiology, neurology, research, skilled interventions, statistical analysis, and so on. But how do we put this knowledge into action with our youngest patients, clients or students? Through play! Here’s some practical tips for how to design a session that is both fun and functional.

Understand age and ability level
There are SO many discreet cognitive and language milestones that kids will encounter at their own pace and each will make a huge difference as to how they will be best engaged. If a child isn’t counting yet, a board game with a numbered spinner or dice won’t be very engaging. If they’re already reading, understanding complex direction and using developed imaginary play, cup stacking or musical instruments won’t be interesting. You can always modify how you use the materials as well. A game that is meant to involve turn taking- such as memory match or pop up pirate – can be fun, engaging and beneficial even if they’re the only player and you simply discuss what is going on with them.

Match and mismatching energies
Sometimes we meet a child where they are, but sometimes we need to take the opposite approach. If a child comes in shy, don’t overwhelm them with energy and enthusiasm. Be warm, friendly, calm and open. If they start to get more engaged, you can get more silly. If they are a high energy kid, over the top song and dance activities can be just what they need. But it can also lead to lost focus. Get comfortable bringing different levels of energy and enthusiasm based on the needs of each individual.

Insert the unexpected
“Sneeze” and knock down a block tower. Place a toy on your head and pretend you’ve lost it. Fall asleep mid play. Knock on a wall table and pretend a new person, toy or object is arriving. Use a hand puppet to “eat” the materials. Play “confused” about anything that will be obvious to the child.

Get to know the leading characters
In my experience, these are the names to be familiar with in 2024: Miss Rachel. Blippi. Paw Patrol. Bluey. Roblox. Minecraft. Some of the classics like Legos, Mario, Disney Princesses and Pokémon and are still around, too. When in doubt – ask! Find out who are the favorite characters/shows/games and do some research. You can theme your activities to match interests or just have a conversation starter.

Use Movement
Instead of looking at artic flashcards at the table, play hide and seek or make it a scavenger hunt. Talk about verbs while in action – jump, dance, shake, clap, go, stop. Let them sit on a yoga ball or bounce on a trampoline while doing worksheet structured question tasks. Take a break mid session for 10 seconds of jumping jacks, a round of Go Noodle or kid yoga.