The therapist relates feelings to volcanoes, noting that when they are kept inside, they can build up and erupt like a volcano (e.g., Stern, 2002). Whitehouse and Pudney (1996) provided a volcano activity sheet. A volcano lamp inside a see-through water container can also enhance


learning (https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/tower-


volcano-lamp/). When a switch is pressed, red lava balls erupt through a volcano into red-lighted water, then back down outside the volcano. These activities also have applications for anger management, sensory issues, and relaxation.


Moving Straw The therapist tells the child that they will move a straw without touching it (Osborne & Boyce, 2013). A cotton ball or feather will also work. They place a straw horizontally on a table in front of them. The therapist rubs their hands together and says, “I’ll create a magnetic current with my mind.” The therapist leans over the straw, moves a finger slowly in circles around the straw, then gradually stops, placing one finger over and in front of the straw. The therapist then moves the finger away from the straw while secretly and gently blowing on the straw, which will move by itself toward the therapist’s finger, as though following it.


To divert attention away from the fact that the therapist is blowing on the straw, the therapist tells a story about using the power of their mind or brain. In a more directive approach, the therapist can explain that play therapy sessions can help to “make your brain stronger, so you can pay more attention, have better listening ears, use your words when you


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Magnet Tricks Some tricks available on YouTube use magnets to demonstrate how they attract or repel other magnets or objects. Stern (2002) described an activity using a magnet metaphor, explaining that a people magnet is someone who attracts people. Lists are made on how to pull people toward you (e.g., share toys) or to push people away (e.g., be bossy). The Wonderboard® magnetized,


Make A Face includes interchangeable facial features on a playboard,


which teaches children how feelings are revealed through facial expressions.


Changing Spots The therapist holds a six-sided die between the thumb and index finger. With a secret twist of the fingers and rotating the hand back and forth, the die makes an extra turn, revealing a different side. This trick is a metaphor for changing feelings, especially when combined with mood dice, which have a different face on each of the six sides. A mood die can be strategically used while playing board games, such as alternating a throw of a standard, dotted die with a mood die. When a mood die is thrown, the therapist can say: “What feeling does that face show? Talk about a time you felt that.”


are mad [or some other relevant therapeutic goal]. You can be the boss of your brain.” A small squeeze ball in the shape of a brain can be given to the child, or as an optional item in a prize box at the end of the session to reinforce learning.


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22 | PLAYTHERAPYMarch 2020 | www.a4pt.org


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