BAPT Conference 2024 Brochure - Flipbook - Page 12
Student Workshop: Understanding the
Developmental Process of Play and its
Significance for Play Therapists by Sonia
Murray
Workshop Synopsis:
The "Understanding the Developmental Process of Play and its
Significance for Play Therapists" workshop is a comprehensive, three-hour session
designed for student play therapists. It aims to provide an understanding of the
developmental stages of play and their critical importance in child development and
Play Therapy.
Participants will begin with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of play,
including its various types and the theoretical frameworks that underpin play
development. This will be followed by an exploration of the different stages of play
development, from sensorimotor and symbolic play to social play, highlighting their
significance in the growth and emotional well-being of children. It will also link to Dr
Sue Jennings9 Embodiment, Project and Role paradigm.
The workshop will then focus on the role of the play therapist in facilitating and
understanding the play through a developmental lens. Techniques for creating
conducive play environments and observing play behaviours will be discussed,
equipping participants with practical skills to enhance their therapeutic practice.
A crucial segment of the workshop will address play deprivation, examining its causes,
effects and its implications to Play Therapy. This section underscores the pivotal role
of play therapists in mitigating the impacts of play deprivation on children's
development.
To bridge theory and practice, the workshop will include experiential activities and
case scenarios.
Key learning Objectives:
•
•
•
Participants will develop a deeper awareness and understanding of the
development process of play and it9s importance for Play Therapists.
Participants will develop an understanding of the links between the EPR
paradigm and the other developmental models.
Participants will be able to describe play deprivation and it9s impact on
children.
• Participants will have a deeper understanding of observing
children's play behaviours and respond with a child-centred
therapeutic approach that support the child's developmental and
emotional needs.
Biography: Sonia Murray – BAPT Registered Play Therapist® & Supervisor®,
DipSW, NNEB
Sonia Murray is a highly experienced BAPT Registered Play Therapist who has been
working with parents/carers in the Play Therapy process for nearly 30 years. In
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