While psychological distress is becoming increasingly prevalent among Hong Kong children, play therapy is proven a potent treatment. HKYWCA presented the findings of a research on play therapy and shared frontline experience in a seminar for teachers and social workers, to increase the awareness of children’s mental health.

The Association conducted a research with more than 40 children with psychological distress and/or special educational needs. Pre-test and post-test scores assessing their performance by social workers and parents showed that play therapy is effective in managing emotions, building self-esteem, self-confidence and sense of security, and reducing signs of psychological distress. Focus groups also revealed that parents’ participation can further extend the effect of the treatment. Ms. Lottie Lau, an expert in play therapy mentioned that toddlers cannot tell their feelings by words as they are still developing their language system. However, they often express themselves through games and toys. Therefore, play has an important role in children’s growth and development.

The Association set up a task force group to promote play therapy in 2013, and is now expanding the service to parents and relevant parties, including schools to help tackle students’ emotional problems. Two representatives of the Association introduced HKYWCA’s service to the audiences. Ms. Janice Yip pointed out that children and their family members are all welcome for the service. With consultations, workshops and practice classes, parents will be able to deploy basic skills of play therapy and help their children at home. Moreover, Ms. Hung Ngai delivered the concepts and skills of play therapy with video, book and real cases. We also showcased the drawing of the service users, to let audience understand more about the stories of the children.

For more information about Y Play’s services, please contact Ms. Janice Yip at 2720 4318.