Therapeutic physical games, strategies and activities to help children aged 2-12 who have experienced abuse and neglect

Develop children's brains and bonds with this collection of no-tech, physical games, strategies and activities. Ideal for children who have experienced neglect, abuse and trauma, these "real-world" experiences draw on therapeutic, trauma-focused-care play principles and promote positive attachment between child and caregivers.

Explanations for how and why specific play themes and caregiver attitudes can help children's brain development enhance the text. The book also shows how children learn to problem-solve real life situations by playing them out, finding workable solutions to their own problems, and increasing their resiliency. Further benefits include better cause-effect thinking, impulse control, and increased cognitive and emotional functioning by practicing physical movements that exercise specific areas of the brain.

"The book shows how particular activities contribute to healing the neurological and psychological damage that trauma has created. It also advises on helping children to problem-solve by acting out situations in real life. The questions at the end of each chapter are valuable for reflecting on what has been learnt and how to apply that; the personal experiences help reassurance and credibility, showing the impact of the activities in the real world. A useful book for teachers, therapists and parents which takes a refreshing new approach that can be utilised in many areas of childhood." - Parents in Touch