Play therapy is a specialized approach that supports children’s emotional, cognitive, and social development through play-based techniques. Recognizing the growing need for professionals trained in this area, the OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Development: Play Therapy provides a structured and comprehensive learning experience. This diploma equips participants with essential knowledge and practical skills to effectively support children’s psychological and developmental needs.
Play therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that allows children to express their emotions, process experiences, and develop coping mechanisms through play. Unlike traditional therapy, which relies on verbal communication, play therapy uses toys, games, and creative activities to help children articulate their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. This approach is particularly beneficial for children experiencing trauma, anxiety, behavioural issues, or developmental delays.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Development: Play Therapy is designed to provide professionals and aspiring practitioners with a strong foundation in play-based therapeutic techniques. The course covers key aspects of child development and play therapy interventions, ensuring participants gain the necessary expertise to work with children effectively.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Development: Play Therapy is an invaluable qualification for anyone passionate about supporting children’s emotional well-being and development. With its comprehensive curriculum and practical approach, this course empowers individuals to create positive, lasting impacts in children’s lives.
OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Development: Play Therapy
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Child Development (4 Hours)
- Identify key stages of child development from infancy to adolescence
- Understand the cognitive, emotional, and social growth of children
- Recognise factors influencing healthy child development
- Analyse common developmental challenges and delays
Fundamentals of Play Therapy (4 Hours)
- Define play therapy and its role in child development
- Explore the history and evolution of play therapy
- Understand the benefits of play-based interventions for children
- Identify different settings where play therapy can be applied
Theoretical Approaches to Play Therapy (5 Hours)
- Compare major theories underpinning play therapy, including psychoanalytic, humanistic, and cognitive-behavioural approaches
- Understand how different theoretical models influence play therapy techniques
- Evaluate the effectiveness of various theoretical approaches in different contexts
- Apply theoretical knowledge to case study scenarios
Child Psychology and Emotional Development (3 Hours)
- Understand the psychological and emotional needs of children at different developmental stages
- Recognise signs of emotional distress and behavioural concerns in children
- Explore the impact of family, environment, and life experiences on child psychology
- Develop strategies to support children’s emotional well-being
Play-Based Interventions and Techniques (4 Hours)
- Learn various play therapy techniques such as role-play, storytelling, and sand tray therapy
- Understand how different types of play support emotional expression and healing
- Assess which interventions are suitable for specific emotional and behavioural challenges
- Develop skills to create a safe and engaging play therapy environment
Communication and Therapeutic Relationships (3 Hours)
- Develop effective communication skills for engaging with children in therapy
- Understand the importance of non-verbal communication in play therapy
- Build trust and rapport with children through play-based techniques
- Learn strategies for working with parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process
Working with Children Experiencing Trauma and Anxiety (3 Hours)
- Identify symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and stress in children
- Understand the impact of trauma on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being
- Explore play therapy techniques tailored for children dealing with trauma and anxiety
- Develop strategies to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment
Ethical Considerations and Safeguarding in Play Therapy (4 Hours)
- Understand the ethical responsibilities of play therapy practitioners
- Learn best practices for safeguarding and child protection
- Explore confidentiality, consent, and professional boundaries in play therapy
- Recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in therapy
- Comprehensive Understanding of Child Development
Gain in-depth knowledge of children’s emotional, cognitive, and social growth, enabling you to support their developmental needs effectively. - Specialised Training in Play Therapy
Learn evidence-based play therapy techniques to help children express emotions, build resilience, and overcome psychological challenges. - Enhanced Communication and Therapeutic Skills
Develop strong interpersonal and therapeutic communication skills to build trust and rapport with children in a supportive environment. - Career Advancement Opportunities
Boost your professional credentials and unlock career opportunities in education, counselling, mental health, and social work. - Practical and Applied Learning
Engage in case studies and real-world applications, ensuring hands-on experience in implementing play therapy techniques. - Ethical and Safeguarding Expertise
Understand the ethical principles and safeguarding responsibilities essential for working with children in therapeutic settings. - Flexible Learning for Professionals
Designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing you to balance learning with your existing commitments. - Positive Impact on Children’s Well-Being
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children by providing them with emotional support and developmentally appropriate therapeutic interventions.
This diploma provides a valuable skill set for professionals looking to enhance their expertise in child development and play therapy.
This diploma is ideal for individuals who work with or aspire to work with children in therapeutic, educational, and social care settings. It is suitable for:
- Teachers and Early Childhood Educators
Enhance your ability to support children’s emotional and psychological development through play-based techniques. - Counsellors and Mental Health Professionals
Gain specialised training in play therapy to help children express emotions and overcome psychological challenges. - Social Workers and Child Welfare Professionals
Develop essential skills to support vulnerable children dealing with trauma, anxiety, and behavioural difficulties. - Healthcare and Childcare Professionals
Learn play therapy interventions to assist children in hospital, clinical, and daycare settings. - Parents and Caregivers
Understand how to use therapeutic play techniques to support your child’s emotional well-being and development. - Psychology and Social Science Students
Build a strong foundation in child development and play therapy as a step towards a career in child psychology or therapy.
This course is designed to equip participants with practical and theoretical knowledge, making it beneficial for professionals across various fields working with children.
