Why We Use a Child-Led Therapy Approach

What is Child-Led Therapy? 

Child-led therapy is the practice of allowing a child to determine the direction of their therapy session. 

Instead of entering a session with a pre-planned agenda and structure, we approach it with an open mind. 

By allowing the child to move towards the toys or activities they want, we become a trusted play partner and help the child feel comfortable. 

In turn, this helps a child to feel safe and open to trying new techniques or activities to further their development.

What are the Principles of Child Led Therapy?

There are certain principles we follow when practising this approach. 

These include: 

• Developing a warm and friendly rapport with the child. 
• Accepting the child as they are with no expectations. 
• Creating an environment where the child feels comfortable to express their feelings. 
• Being alert to the feelings the child expresses through play and reflecting them back in a way they can understand. 
• Respecting the child’s ability to solve their own problems and allowing them the chance to do so. 
• Not trying to direct the activities or conversation in any certain way but allowing the child to lead the session. 
• Understanding therapy is a gradual process and should not be rushed. 
• Accepting, acknowledging and respecting all communication.

The importance of these principles means we create a safe and trusting environment for any child. 

In a space where they are not pressured to follow a strict structure, they learn to build confidence and autonomy, which are important in any child’s development. 

At Sparking Speech, we provide a Neuro-Affirmative, child-centred, strengths based and holistic Speech & Language therapy service.

References:

What is child-led therapy? (meaningfulspeech.com)

The importance of child-led therapy – The London Speech and Feeding Practice

Axline Principles – Play Therapy Ireland