Behaviour is communication

Children often use behaviour as a form of communication, especially when they lack the verbal skills to express their needs, desires, and emotions. The underlying causes of these behaviours can be diverse, ranging from environmental factors to internal emotional states. As caregivers and educators, it’s crucial to support children in understanding and processing these difficulties.

What is Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviours, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships. In Play Therapy, children enter into a dynamic relationship with the therapist that enables them to express, explore and make sense of their difficult and painful experiences. Play Therapy helps children find healthier ways of communicating, develop fulfilling relationships, increase resiliency, and facilitate emotional literacy.

Why is ‘play’ therapy the most effective form of therapeutic intervention for children?

Whereas adults may attend ‘talk’ therapy, play is a child’s primary form of communication. Children tell us about their inner world through play long before they are able to link words to their experiences through language.

Through play, they form a sense of who they are, whilst learning to understand that other people can be different from them. Relationship skills, such as being able to trust, respect, empathise, share, and co-operate with people, can be developed through play.

Rather than children having to explain what is troubling them, as adult therapy usually expects, children use play to communicate at their own level and at their own pace, without feeling interrogated or threatened.

What are the benefits of Play Therapy?

• Emotional Support: Helps children express emotions and thoughts that might be difficult to articulate.
• Behavioural Change: Encourages the development of healthier behaviours and coping mechanisms.
• Cognitive Development: Supports learning and development through play-based activities.
• Trauma Resolution: Provides a safe space for children to work through traumatic experiences.

Why do children come to Play Therapy?

Children may be referred to play therapy for various reasons. Here are some common ones:

• Emotional Difficulties: Children who experience intense emotions, such as anxiety, sadness, or anger.
• Trauma and Abuse: Children who have faced trauma, abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional), or neglect.
• Behavioural Challenges: Children who display behavioural issues, including aggression, defiance, or difficulty following rules.
• Life Changes: Children who have encountered significant life events such as family difficulties, separation, loss of a loved one, or changes in living arrangements.
• Academic Struggles: Children who face challenges reaching their full academic potential.
• Attachment Issues: Children with attachment difficulties: difficulty forming relationships, clinginess, lack of affection, withdrawn.
• Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays or communication difficulties.

At Turning Point Child Therapy, I provide a sanctuary for children affected by circumstances beyond their control.

I understand the intricate workings of a child’s developing brain and the importance of emotional well-being as the cornerstone of success.

Through the gentle and insightful approach of play therapy, it offers a voice to the silent worries, fears, and thoughts of our children, allowing them to communicate and heal within the metaphorical world of play.

Harnessing the potential of play, enables children to express what is troubling them when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts and feelings.

When to refer a child for Play Therapy:

• When a child exhibits signs of emotional distress, such as anxiety or depression.
• If a child has experienced a traumatic event and is struggling to cope.
• When traditional teaching methods do not meet the educational needs of a child with complex emotional and behavioural difficulties.
• If a child’s behaviour is disruptive or they are unable to engage with peers or adults in a healthy way.

Actions are reflections of thoughts and feelings

As educational professionals we need to recognise behaviour as a form of communication. Each action and reaction from our students conveys a deeper message about their internal states, needs, and emotions. By understanding and interpreting these behavioural communications, we can create a more supportive and responsive educational environment. Let’s listen not only to what our students say but also to what their behaviours tell us, as this is the key to fostering a nurturing and effective learning atmosphere.

Vision & Ethos

I am committed to working collaboratively with school staff to create a culture where strong, trust-based relationships are the foundation for managing behaviour. By prioritising empathy and connection, we can transform the school experience for students, allowing them to flourish both emotionally and academically. My approach is tailored to empower educators to see beyond the behaviour, to the child in need of support, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

How I can help

Every educational setting is unique and so I develop tailor-made training and support to meet the specific needs of each school. Whether it is fostering emotional well-being, addressing challenging behaviours or developing educators understanding.

Together we can create an environment where every child can thrive, and every staff member can excel.

Services available

I am dedicated to the implementation of effective behaviour management strategies that cater for all aspects of nurturing growth in educational settings.

At Turning Point the support offered covers a range of services designed to develop and enhance provision within your educational environment.

This includes:

Why choose Turning Point Child Therapy?

Selecting me as your behaviour consultant means choosing a professional with a proven track record in school improvement, in both academic and behaviour outcomes.

With a Master’s degree spanning three years, I have a deep understanding of the impact that childhood experiences, trauma, attachment, and brain development have on students. My commitment is unwavering when it comes to enhancing the experiences of both children and staff within educational settings. I am driven by a passion to create positive change and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.

Empowering Parents, Transforming Childhoods

As an experienced headteacher, a qualified child therapist and first and foremost a mum to three boys, I offer a unique perspective on child behaviour that is both educational and therapeutic. I understand that parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing behaviour. My approach is to empower parents with strategies that are rooted in empathy, understanding, and the therapeutic principles of play.

What is Parent & Family Support?

By creating a supportive environment where children can express themselves and explore their emotions through play, parents can gain insights into their child’s inner world. This understanding paves the way for effective behaviour management that honours the child’s individual needs and fosters a sense of security and trust. Together, we can build a bridge between home and school, ensuring consistency in care and an integrated approach to nurturing well-rounded, happy children.

What do I offer to parents?

Parents and Families require support for various reasons. Here are some common ones:

• Building trust and communication with your child: Foster a strong bond by being present, listening actively, and showing empathy to help your child feel heard and understood.
• Understanding and managing your child’s emotions: Learn to recognize, validate, and regulate your child’s emotions to help them develop emotional intelligence and resilience.
• Developing effective discipline strategies: Establish clear boundaries and consequences while using positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour and self-regulation in your child.
• Creating a consistent routine and boundaries: Establish a predictable daily schedule and set clear rules to provide a sense of security and structure for your child.
• Navigating complex family dynamics: Learn to communicate effectively with other caregivers, establish routines, and prioritize quality time with your child to maintain a sense of unity.
• Managing stress and self-care for parents: Prioritize your own well-being by taking breaks, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support to maintain emotional resilience as a parent.

If you’re struggling to understand your child’s behaviour or need guidance on managing tantrums, meltdowns, and other challenging moments, I’m here to help.

So don’t hesitate to get in touch – let’s take the first step towards a more harmonious and loving relationship with your child. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards a brighter future.