The Connection Corp

When we work with kids in therapy, expressing big emotions like anger, sadness, or fear can feel overwhelming and sometimes even shameful. Many kids worry that talking about their feelings makes them “weak,” so they stay quiet instead.

But the truth is, putting feelings into words gives us power.

Our therapist, Sarah once worked with a child who had a really hard time opening up about anything difficult. One day, the child picked up a puppet in the therapy room and started playing. So she joined her and started talking to the puppet.

Sarah asked, “What’s something hard you went through this week?”

The puppet answered, “I was nervous about a test.”

Of course, it wasn’t really the puppet. It was the child.

Through that small layer of separation, the child was finally able to share something vulnerable. So Sarah kept going. Sarah asked what that felt like, what might help, and reminded “the puppet” that no matter the outcome, they are still worthy.

The child responded to everything through the puppet.

Sometimes, kids don’t need to be pushed to open up. They just need a safer way to do it.

Puppets, stuffed animals, and play can create just enough distance to make hard feelings feel shareable without overwhelming vulnerability.

And often, that is where the real healing begins.

Have you ever seen a child open up more through play? Share your experience or thoughts in the comments.


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