101 Favorite Play Therapy Techniques (Child therapy series)

Although I have only had 5 years of experience in play therapy with elementary-age children, I felt that the techniques described in this book were basic and not very imaginative- in other words, I had already thought of many of them myself. Several of the techniques described are similar variations on the same theme; for example, the assigning colors to emotions and having kids color in hearts/bodies/etc. strategy was echoed numerous times. I suggest borrowing this from the library rather than purchasing it.

I am giving this book the same review as it's more current version, 101 More Favorite Play Therapy Techniques. There are a lot of really good, creative ideas in this first version, just as there are in the newer version. However, the one thing that is lacking in both books is a quick statement at the begining of each activity that identifies what age group and what general problem the activity is most appropriate for. Such information allows me to decide, right away, whether to invest the time in reading further about the activity if I think it would be relavent to a particular child I am working with.

Definately not as good as the other volumes. Techniques aren't as interesting and kid friendly. If you are trying to choose, go for volume 2.

A wonderful resource for therapists seeking new and creative techniques. The book includes therapeutic games, art, stories, and other techniques developed by play therapists from across North America. The one drawback--it would be helpful to have a theoretical overview of play therapy at the beginning of the book.

Therapists who like this book and who are looking for additional books on play therapy/child counseling techniques may be interested in the following books:

101 More Favorite Play Therapy Techniques (Child Therapy Series)

Creative Interventions for Troubled Children & Youth

More Creative Interventions for Troubled Children and Youth

This book offers several great ideas for play therapy. It is so important for therapists to remember that play is one of the only ways to communicate with young children. The book uses sound research and evidence from well known experts to validate claims. This book is a little 'heavy' for anyone who is not already in the world of psychotherapy. I would recommend it for therapists and educators but not for parents or laypersons.