The Role of Play in Emotional Growth - Even for Older Kids!

Calling all parents! Can you think of the last time you got the chance to play with your tween or teen? Chances are it might be a little difficult to recall. 

As kids start to enter their preadolescent years, life begins to look a bit more structured and potentially routine. School responsibilities and social expectations grow. Additionally, any free time is now met with screens and responsibilities. 

For older kids, they don’t want to stop playing. Rather, it’s encouraged! However, play begins to look a little different and takes on a new shape. It can look like creativity, humour, or little moments of happiness where responsibilities aren’t occupying any space.

Why Play Still Matters at Any Age

Play Therapy puts kids at the forefront of their emotions and communication. They’re calling the shots and expressing themselves in a wonderfully empowering way!

Research behind Play Therapy shows that play remains a powerful intervention for emotional regulation, coping, and relationship building. Play Therapy helps individuals experiencing: 

• Family dynamic changes (e.g. divorce, death, family merging) 

• Social relationships (e.g. difficulty in friend formation)

• Behavioural and academic issues 

Play Therapy provides kids with a safe environment where they can express themselves freely without needing to perform to a certain standard. When play is absent, relationships can feel transactional and dependent on rules and achievements rather than what matters the most - connection. 

What Play Can Look Like for Older Kids

• Inside jokes and humorous events

• Games and sports, or any playful competition! 

• Creative activities (e.g. drawing, music, reading)

• Low-demand time together, just you and your child

Play doesn’t have to be forced, it’s about connecting with the other in a fun yet beneficial way.

The Big Takeaway 

Play does not have an age limit! It’s not about counting down the days left until they have grown out of their toys but rather how their play is going to evolve and look going forward. 

When parents are able to create a safe space for creative play filled with laughter, smiles, and engagement, they are strengthening the trust, emotions, and connection with their child. 

If you think Play Therapy is one of the many steps you can take to strengthen the relationship between you and your child, visit our Contact page to schedule your session. Your path to reconnection awaits! 

References

Tully, S. (2023). The Magic of Play Therapy for Children & Teens. Thrive Alliance Group.