Ever wondered how playing can help your child? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of play and discover its incredible benefits!
Play is the first language we all learn. Before babies can speak, they’re busy exploring toys, blocks, and other objects that help them make sense of the world around them. Play is how children process their experiences, develop language, and build self-confidence. It’s through play that kids express their feelings, work through difficult situations, and even pick up essential social skills. Most importantly, play helps children regulate their emotions and heal from trauma.

Why? Because in the world of play, kids make the rules. A block can transform into a rocket ship. A doll can have superpowers. Play allows children to explore their feelings and test their understanding of the world in a safe, controlled space. In this world, they have the freedom to be creative, express themselves, and feel empowered.

You might be thinking, “Kendra, my child is 10!” Well, even older kids—tweens and teens—can benefit from play. In today’s digital world, many kids are glued to screens, missing out on the kind of imaginative play that fosters emotional growth. For example, a 12-year-old who experienced trauma at age 7 might still carry emotional baggage from that time. Play offers a way to reconnect with those stuck feelings and begin healing.

Even older children can benefit from activities like playing with action figures in the sand, dressing up, or recreating everyday scenes like grocery shopping or a construction site. Through these creative outlets, kids process their experiences—sometimes even things they can’t put into words.

So, how can you encourage play in a world full of screens?
Here are a few tips to get started:

1. Set Limits on Screen Time – Keep it age-appropriate and balanced.
2. Stock Up on Creative Supplies – Think toys, arts and crafts materials, and games.
3. Join in the Fun – Sit down and play with your kids! Let them lead the way. Their world doesn’t need your rules—just your presence.

Family games like UNO, Exploding Kittens, Connect 4, or Clue can help build connections, spark conversations, and create lasting memories. Most importantly, they allow you to be present with your kids while sharing some laughs.

Need a conversation starter? Try this one from A Little Spot Get to Know Me 101 Conversation Cards: "If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be and why?"

Now, grab a game, a toy, or even some crayons—and start playing! The memories you create—and the healing you nurture—will be priceless.

Until next time, grab a game, a toy, or some crayons, and let’s go play! Stay tuned for our next adventure, where we’ll explore big emotions—how to help both you and your child navigate those stormy seas with confidence. See you soon, and don’t forget to PLAY!
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Kendra Smith, MSW
Harper Therapy Group

At Harper Therapy Group, we are committed to giving back to our community, and every quarter, we organize an outreach project to make a meaningful impact. As a team of social workers, we believe that community service is not only central to our profession but also deeply aligned with our core values.

Last quarter, we reached out to our clients, staff, and friends for donations of new socks, underwear, and gently used winter items to support individuals experiencing homelessness in our area.

Today, our interns Joe and Makayla delivered all of your generous donations to four local organizations in the Fairfax area: The Lamb Center, Patrick Henry Shelter, Bailey's Crossroads Shelter, and Facets. Thanks to your kindness, we were able to make a significant contribution to those in need.

We are excited to announce that our next outreach project will take place in the spring—stay tuned for more details!
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Once again, thank you to everyone who donated and supported this important cause. Your generosity truly makes a difference in our community!

Happy New Year! 
Our team would like to use this space in the future to keep you updated on things we are learning, new staff, great resources, articles and much more!  

Please check back here later this month for an article on Sand Tray!