Sandplay for childrens grief

Posted by Jayne on February 21, 2009 under Child Grief, Grief | Read the First Comment

 

Sandplay describes a type of therapy which allows people to express themselves creatively and non-verbally. Sandplay allows access to the unconscious and expression of feelings without words. Sandplay is a gentle, yet powerful therapy, used with adults and children.

In the 1930’s Margaret Lowenfeld, a child psychoanalyst developed what later became known as the ‘World Technique. She used trays with sand, water and small figures in her work with children. Children could make a ‘minature world’ of their lives in the sandtray.

This work was later expanded upon by Dora Kalff and called Sandplay Therapy. Sandplay therapy recognises that the experience of creating a sandplay is therapuetic in itself. The unconscious, the non verbal, is expressed in the sandtray.

In child grief counselling sandplay provides a safe and gentle way for children to deal with overwhelming feelings such as sadness, fear, and confusion. A story is created in the sand and then feelings about it may be explored with the child.

Most children find sandplay to be an enjoyable therapy and a safe way to talk about thier grief and loss. It is particularly useful when children have experienced traumatic grief such as suicide, accidents, homicide or have witnessed violent incidents.

As adults we often find it difficult to comprehend traumatic events and cope with our feelings. Children find it even more difficult. They may not yet have the words to describe thier feelings. Sandplay and play therapy can help children with grief and trauma.

What actually happens in child grief counselling sandplay therapy?

A tray full of sand which can be sculpted, moulded and shaped is used. Water may be added to the tray. The sandplay room has a collection of small figures, symbols, and natural objects. These figures are carefully chosen and placed in the sand.

Usually the therapist and child don’t talk during the placing of the objects. The process is like creating a picture, or a story in the sand. Children take a lot of care and thought about the placement of objects.

Once the sandplay is finished the therapist and child discuss the sandplay together. Sometimes a sandplay can bring up strong feelings or memories which may be explored further.

Children are given a photo of the sandplay to keep. They may choose to share the sandplay with an adult or not. The childs decision about sharing the sandplay, or talking about it with others is respected by the therapist. Parents are asked to respect their childs wishes and not question a child or jump to conclusions about the meaning of the sandplay.

---