Playful Parenting
There is A LOT of parenting advice out there; some of it is very good but it can be confusing and overwhelming.
And, we are living through difficult times, personally, globally and environmentally.
Children and young people are dealing with increasing challenges. They can struggle with school and home routines, the demands of schoolwork and homework, screentime, friendships, fears and phobias, the list goes on. Sensitive children can end up feeling overwhelmed and totally confused.
Supporting children through these challenges can leave parents feeling tired and depleted in energy.
As a child therapist my approach to supporting families is a little different. I know that children speak and process their world in a different way to adults. They are more creative, more spontaneous and more playful.
When parents and care givers can tune in more easily to the world of the child, then it makes the task of parenting infinitely easier and more enjoyable. Of course, the challenges are still there but they feel lighter and more manageable.
I don’t offer any kind of one-size-fits-all formula for success.
What I do offer is a chance to really get to know your child or young person, to connect with them, enjoy being with them and to work with them in finding solutions to any struggles. I know (from hundreds of therapy sessions with children across different ages, backgrounds and experiences) that this is the one thing they need more than anything else. They really appreciate people in their lives who can speak their language.
It sounds easy (and in some ways it is) but if you have ever tried to learn a new language you will know that it can be confusing and it takes time and small steps to make progress. And as adults living in a busy world we have often forgotten how to be creative, intuitive and just silly (which are the things that children are excellent at).
This is where I can help you; by sharing ideas, skills and inspiration which will help you develop easier and more nourishing relationships within your family.
As a qualified therapist I am careful in how I work with groups and I aim to create a safe space where difference and diversity (of all kinds) is welcomed.
How does it work?
Six fortnightly sessions (one hour). Venue in central Salisbury – tbc
Additional materials/ recommendations are available to look at between sessions
In-person sessions will include some teaching, alongside gentle play, art and mindfulness activities. There will also be an opportunity for reflective discussion and sharing of experiences
Self-compassion is the key theme running through all sessions
Topics include; using PACE by Dan Hughes (Playful, Accepting, Curious, Empathic), different kinds of play, when to be playful, helping children with big emotions, overcoming doubts and what gets in the way
Additional insights into sensitive, deep feeling or neurodivergent children and teens
There will be no Facebook or Whatsapp group, to give more time for play!
A small and cosy group (up to 8)
The focus is on helping you to find a parenting style that feels right for you, and giving you the space to tune in to which approach feels good. And giving you permission to get it wrong sometimes, because we are all human.
This course is for you if:
You are interested in developing loving and connected relationships within your family
You would like practical ideas around how to be more playful and creative
You are looking for the support, shared experience and care that a group can offer
You have some time each week available to spend focussed on your children
You may already have an interest in mindfulness or self-compassion (but no worries if you don’t)
If you are looking for quick solutions to specific problems or you don’t have much time then this may not be the course for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is this course suitable for me if I have teens or tweens? Yes, older children respond well to play and creative approaches too, albeit in a slightly different way. The focus is on developing habits, routines and interactions which are unique to your family, it’s like having a kind of creative language which runs in the background, holding the family together.
I’m not very creative, can I still do the course? Yes, there is no need to have any particular skills or abilities. Children actually really enjoy it when adults are not particularly good at things, when they mess up and make mistakes.
Begins January. Central Salisbury location. Details TBC.
Introductory offer of £64 for the first run of the programme (usual price £127)
Option 1: Pay in full. Option 2: Pay in two instalments
