One of my favorite roles has always been that of student. I love to learn new things, new perspectives on my work and new techniques. During March I am enrolled in an online family therapy technique called Theraplay (https://theraplay.org/what-is-theraplay/core-concepts/) taught by the amazing Dafna Lender who gives it her own twist as Integrative Attachment Family therapy.
I work with many kids but have had less success working with their parents. With this method you engage the parent and child in physical touch and fun, even silly games that stress caring, seeking out and finding, safety, and attachment to each other.
The game I learned today and then shared with my young 8 yr old client is called the Weather Report.
In this scenario you work on someone's back (with their permission) usually a child's, and you use your hands to gently tell a story of the weather through gentle stroking motions on the back. For instance you begin: "Today in NY the sun is shining (here rub a circular motion into the top of their back) and their is a gentle breeze blowing ( for this gently illustrate the breeze with fingertips across the back). This weather report could include a cloud appearing or a rain shower or eventually the moon rising and shining light down the back.
If the parent is not present to do this with their child, as therapist it is best to demonstrate this on a large stuffed animal like a teddy bear. Then the child can understand and relay this to their parent. That is what happened today with my client who said she would like to do this with her mom after practicing on the teddy. Hurray for the weather report. What blows the sails of your happiness today?
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