S3E33 - Parent Companion for Play Therapy: Helping Children Build Healthy Self-Esteem

In this episode of the Parent Companion for Play Therapy series, I talk about self-esteem, the seventh and final common issue that often brings children into child-centered play therapy. Self-esteem isn't something children are born with—it develops over time as they begin to understand who they are and what they are capable of. When a child struggles with self-esteem, you often see hesitation, self-doubt, and social difficulties because it's hard for a child to connect with others when they don't yet have a clear sense of themselves.

I explain how child-centered play therapy helps build self-esteem in powerful ways. In the playroom, children lead the experience, which naturally increases confidence and trust in themselves. Therapists notice and reflect what children are doing, and instead of using praise, they use encouragement that focuses on effort and persistence. Over time, children begin to see themselves differently—they start to believe they are capable, competent, and able to handle challenges. Those messages become part of how they see themselves not just in childhood, but throughout their lives.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com My Book: Device Detox: A Parent's Guide To Reducing Usage, Preventing Tantrums, And Raising Happier Kids - https://a.co/d/bThnKH9 Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/

Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Landreth, G.L., & Bratton, S.C. (2019). Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT): An Evidence-Based 10-Session Filial Therapy Model (2nd ed.). Routledge.