The Healing Power of Play: Supporting Children Impacted by Traumatic Events
The recent fires in Los Angeles have left many families dealing with loss and uncertainty. For children, experiencing events like this can be especially overwhelming, often causing anxiety, fear and a loss of security. Traumatic events aren’t limited to natural disasters like wildfires – children may also face challenges such as losing a loved one, experiencing violence, being in an accident, or coping with instability caused by illness or displacement.
In all these situations, play can be a powerful way to help children process their emotions, find stability and rebuild their confidence. Let’s look at why play is so important, how it supports recovery, and practical ways families can use play to help children through tough times.
Why Play Matters for Children After Trauma
Processing Emotions and Reducing Stress
Play provides a safe outlet for children to express emotions they may not yet have the words to articulate. Whether it’s anger, sadness or confusion, engaging in creative or imaginative play can help children to process their feelings. This form of emotional expression reduces toxic stress (prolonged, unmanaged stress that negatively impacts physical, emotional and cognitive development), enabling children to feel more in control of their environment and emotions.
Emotional Resilience
When a child plays, they often rehearse scenarios, solve problems and adapt to new situations. These experiences mirror real-life challenges and teach them coping mechanisms. For children affected by trauma, play can be a way to explore feelings of empowerment and take control in a world that may otherwise feel unpredictable. Read more about this here
Restoring Normality
Trauma will disrupt daily routines, leaving children feeling unsettled. Play reintroduces structure, predictability and familiarity into their lives. Whether it’s a board game, card game, building blocks, or roleplay, these activities provide an anchor of stability amidst the chaos, helping children regain a sense of normality and security.
Simple, Effective Play Ideas for Trauma Recovery
1. Creative Play to Process Emotions
Artistic activities like drawing, painting or sculpting offer children a non-verbal way to process their experiences.
For example, a child might draw a peaceful landscape they imagine visiting again or paint a scene that represents a happy memory to remind them of joyful times. Storytelling through puppet shows or acting can also help children narrate and make sense of their experiences.
2. Movement-Based Play for Emotional Relief
Physical play is a powerful stress reliever. Activities such as dancing, yoga or even creating an obstacle course can help children release pent-up energy and improve mood by boosting endorphin levels. These activities can also encourage mindfulness and body awareness, helping with relaxation.
3. Sensory Play to Soothe and Regulate
For children experiencing heightened anxiety, sensory play can have a calming effect. Simple activities like playing with water, sand or lights engage the senses and help with emotional regulation. These experiences are particularly helpful for younger children who may struggle to verbally express their feelings.
4. Roleplay and Pretend Play
Roleplay allows children to recreate real-life events in a controlled way and helps them to process their experiences safely. For example, setting up a pretend school can help them feel in control and understand their experience with school related challenges, or taking on the role of a doctor will allow them to explore feelings about medical experiences and process fears in a safe and playful way. Roleplay is also a great way for parents to get involved, creating a supportive and open space for communication.
5. Interactive Digital Tools
Apps like Toca Life World encourage open-ended play and storytelling, giving children a chance to create and explore in a virtual space. More specifically, Toca Life Hospital provides a safe environment for children to role play medical scenarios, helping them process their experiences with healthcare while also building empathy and confidence. These tools are particularly effective for children who prefer non-verbal forms of expression. Similarly, films like Inside Out can help children articulate their emotions, opening the door for meaningful conversations.
How Parents Can Support Play at Home
Provide Time and Space
Set aside time each day for unstructured play. Create a dedicated space where your child feels free to explore and express themselves without judgment.
Involve the Whole Family
Play doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Play games as a family to help with bonding and provide additional emotional support for children. Here some fun family games to try.
Encourage Expression Without Pressure
Avoid directing or controlling your child’s play. Instead, observe and join in as needed, allowing your child to take the lead. This approach builds trust and ensures the activity remains therapeutic rather than overwhelming.
Trauma can have lasting impacts on individuals and communities, but for children, play can be a beacon of help and healing. By encouraging playful activities, families can help their children process their emotions, rebuild resilience and regain a sense of normality. Play isn’t a distraction – it’s a critical part of recovery, empowering children to find joy and strength in the face of adversity.