Reviewed by Brittany Stanczuk, PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Early Childhood Specialist
For many young children, words aren’t the first language of emotion. When big feelings surface—whether from stress, anxiety, grief, or behavioral challenges—they often don’t know how to verbally express their experience. That’s where play therapy can make all the difference.
At Sasco River Center, we work with children and families in Darien, Wilton, and surrounding areas using evidence-based approaches like child-centered play therapy and cognitive behavioral play therapy to support kids’ emotional growth, confidence, and resilience.
Why Play Matters in Mental Health
Children don’t sit down and explain their feelings like adults might. But give them a sandbox, some figurines, or a stuffed animal, and suddenly you start to see their world. Through play, children explore, express, and process experiences that might be overwhelming or confusing in real life.
Play therapy work is grounded in the understanding that play is how children learn—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. It gives them a safe, developmentally appropriate way to share their thoughts and feelings when they can’t yet find the words.
How Play Therapy Works
A trained play therapist creates a structured, supportive space where a child can lead through play. Using tools like puppets, miniatures, art supplies, and role playing, the therapist gently observes and guides the process—helping the child make connections, develop self-awareness, and build coping strategies.
There are several forms of play therapy, including:
- Child-centered play therapy, which focuses on creating a nurturing space where the child directs the play.
- Cognitive behavioral play therapy, which integrates skill-building techniques for managing anxiety, behavior, and mood.
Each approach is tailored to the child’s age, needs, and goals. Typically, play therapy techniques are used with children aged 3–12, but older kids and even teens can benefit from creative, play-informed approaches.
At Sasco River Center, our therapists specialize in play-based care for kids in Darien, Wilton, and surrounding communities. We work closely with families to ensure every session supports the child’s growth both in and out of the therapy room.
The Benefits of Play Therapy
Play therapy can support children experiencing a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety or mood concerns
- Behavioral difficulties
- Family transitions (e.g., divorce, relocation)
- Trauma or grief
- Social difficulties
- School-related stress
Some of the key benefits of play therapy include:
- Improved social skills and peer relationships
- Increased ability to communicate thoughts and needs
- Greater emotional awareness and regulation
- Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
- Stronger problem solving skills
It also helps caregivers gain insights into how their child is feeling—and what they need to feel safe, supported, and successful.
What a Session Might Look Like
A typical session might begin with the child choosing how they want to engage. That could mean building with blocks, pretending with dolls, or drawing out a recent experience. The play therapist follows the child’s lead while gently supporting emotional expression and helping build coping strategies along the way.
For example, if a child is struggling with anxiety, the therapist might use storytelling or role playing to explore what the child feels during a stressful situation, and how they might respond differently next time.
Over time, the child gains new skills for managing big feelings, improving relationships, and feeling more in control of their inner world.
Partnering with Parents
Parents and caregivers are essential partners in the therapeutic process. Regular check-ins with your child’s therapist help translate insights from the therapy room into everyday life. You’ll learn:
- How to support your child’s coping strategies at home
- What to look for as signs of progress
- How to reinforce the emotional tools your child is learning
If you’re noticing changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or relationships, we’re here to help. Sasco River Center offers developmentally-informed therapy for children aged 3 and up in Darien, Wilton, and nearby areas.
When to Consider Play Therapy
Every child has tough days. But if your child is consistently struggling with:
- Separation anxiety or sleep problems
- Anger or frequent meltdowns
- Withdrawal or isolation
- Difficulty in school or social settings
…it may be time to explore play-based support. You don’t need to wait for a crisis. The earlier kids build emotional tools, the more confident and connected they’ll feel.
Creating a Safe Space for Growth
The beauty of play therapy is that it meets kids where they are. It honors their natural language—play—and uses it to build connection, confidence, and healing.
If you’re ready to explore how play therapy can support your child’s mental health, reach out to Sasco River Center today.
We’re here to help children thrive emotionally and socially—one block tower, story, or puppet show at a time.
Commitment to Inclusivity: Sasco River Center is an equal opportunity organization, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, disability, color, size, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic background. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all clients and colleagues.