and hip-hop have comparable amounts of violence and misogyny (Henning, 2021). Therefore, we cannot allow one genre while limiting another because of our own preference. The use of music in the playroom also provides an additional opportunity to identify play themes in the type of music that’s played. For example, a theme of sadness and isolation may be present in a song that speaks of being disconnected from themselves or others, in the same way the child would create an empty sand tray. Therefore, the play therapist should be open to all genres of music in the playroom, even if it is not their preference.
From “Safe Places” to “Free Spaces” the importance of allowing clients to be free to be themselves. It is important to acknowledge that historically Black children have been robbed of the freedom of being and expressing themselves (DeGruy, 2017; King, 2011). Trayvon Martin lost his life because of the stereotype that was associated with a hoodie. Tamir Rice was killed for playing with a Nerf gun. Jordan Davis was killed because he was in a car that was playing music ‘too loud.’ Now more than ever, Black children need a free space to express themselves. Play therapy provides an important exception for Black children to safely explore feelings and behaviors while also instilling pride in their culture. In doing so, Black children exposed to frequent racial stressors can use the therapeutic powers of play to help them reclaim their childhood.
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