Malta Association of Play Therapists

16/03/2026

Many ask us about the difference between play and play therapy. While both use the medium of play, their purpose and use are quite different.

Play is a natural part of childhood that supports learning, creativity, and development.

Play therapy, however, is a structured therapeutic approach delivered by a trained professional, where play becomes the child’s language to explore feelings, process experiences, and support emotional healing.

As an association, we aim to raise awareness about play therapy, guide parents and those interested in learning more about it, and support qualified and registered play therapists.

Photo Credits: Ensemble Therapy

09/03/2026

Children don’t always have the words to explain what they are feeling but they often show it through their play.

Play therapy provides a safe, supportive space where children can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges using their natural language: play. It can help children who may be struggling with anxiety, behavioural difficulties, trauma, family changes, social challenges, and more.

As Play Therapists, we are trained to understand and respond to children’s play in ways that support emotional expression, resilience, and healthy development.

Early support can make a powerful difference in a child’s wellbeing and development 💓

02/03/2026

13/02/2026

In play therapy, emotions are not just discussed — they are explored, expressed, and experienced safely through play.

As play therapists, we believe in the importance of psychoeducation. Our work often extends beyond the therapy room, supporting parents, guardians, and other professionals involved in the child’s life to better understand emotional development and regulation.

This Emotional Wheel is a visual tool which can be used at home and in schools as a support to help children name and understand their emotions. When adults consistently model and encourage emotional language, children build confidence in expressing themselves.

This visual helps children to:
🧠 Identify what they are feeling
💬 Expand their emotional vocabulary
🌱 Recognise that all feelings are valid
🤝 Learn that emotions can be expressed safely

When children can name their feelings, they begin to tame their feelings. 💛

02/02/2026

Co-regulation is one of the many powerful benefits of play therapy.

Regulation is our ability to manage emotions — something we continue learning across the entire lifespan. For children especially, regulation doesn’t develop in isolation. It is deeply influenced by their environment and the adults around them.

Children learn to self-regulate through observation and the supportive regulation of trusted adults. This process is known as co-regulation.

In play therapy, we intentionally offer co-regulation by meeting children exactly where they are emotionally — whether that’s joy, fear, anger, sadness, or uncertainty. Through our calm presence, attunement, and responsiveness, children experience what it feels like to be understood and supported, even during big emotions.

We also empower parents and caregivers by sharing co-regulation strategies during our review sessions, so these skills can be practiced and strengthened at home.

Here are some examples of co-regulation techniques ⬇️

26/01/2026

19/01/2026

As play therapists, we support children—but just as importantly, we support the parents and caregivers who are such a vital part of a child’s world.

Through Filial Play, we coach parents in skills that deepen connection and strengthen the parent–child relationship. This work is not about striving for perfection. Every parent feels overwhelmed at times, reacts too quickly, or misses the mark. What matters is not the absence of mistakes, but the willingness to repair—to reconnect, acknowledge what happened, and move forward together.

Repair is powerful. It teaches children trust, resilience, and the foundations of healthy relationships. It shows them that love doesn’t depend on perfection.

In our work, we welcome parents with openness and without judgment. Parenting is a relationship, not a performance—and repair is one of the most meaningful gifts we can model, nurture, and support.

Picture credits : The Synergetic Play Therapy Institute

12/01/2026

Inspired by the words of Dr Gabor Maté, we are reminded that children don’t simply need techniques—they need environments that support their natural capacity to heal, grow, and express themselves.

In Play Therapy, the room itself becomes part of the therapeutic process. Beyond the carefully selected toys in our kit, our space is intentionally designed to offer:

🛡️ Safety – A predictable, child-centred environment where children can explore their inner world without fear of judgment.
🤝 Connection – A warm, relational presence where the therapist attunes to the child’s emotional needs, fostering trust and co-regulation.
🫂 Containment – Clear boundaries and a calm, structured setting that help children process big feelings at their own pace.

These elements are far more than physical features—they are essential therapeutic tools. When a child feels safe, seen, and supported, their play becomes a powerful language for healing.

07/01/2026

The Association recently had the privilege of attending a highly informative workshop on child protection and safeguarding.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Directorate of Child Protection Services for delivering such valuable and engaging training. Their expertise continues to support our mission of promoting safe, ethical, and child-centred therapeutic practice.

Continuous Professional Development is essential in ensuring that we, as therapists, remain skilled, informed, and reflective practitioners. It helps us stay up to date with best practice, deepen our understanding, and continue providing high-quality, effective support to the children and families we serve. 💛

15/12/2025

Play therapists believe in the power of play—not just in the therapy room, but in homes and schools too. 🧩✨

Recess isn’t a break from learning; it’s a vital part of it. Through play, children build emotional resilience, social skills, creativity, and regulation.

When we value play, we support the whole child.

08/12/2025

Play therapy celebrates the individuality of every child.

In the playroom, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Each child brings their own story, personality, and way of expressing themselves.

Through toys, creativity, and nurturing connection, children are met exactly where they are. Their unique strengths are honored, their pace is respected, and their voices are heard—even when the “voice” is play. 💛🎨🧸

Every child is different. And in play therapy, that difference is celebrated. ❣️

07/02/2025

The powerful benefits of Play Therapy
From BAPT -- Play therapy is more than just play—it’s a vital tool for children to express, process and make sense of their world in a way that feels natural and safe. Through play, children find their voice, build resilience and develop the emotional strength they need to thrive.
By raising awareness of play therapy, we advocate for every child’s right to be seen, heard and supported.

Play therapy is more than just play—it’s a vital tool for children to express, process and make sense of their world in a way that feels natural and safe. Through play, children find their voice, build resilience and develop the emotional strength they need to thrive.

By raising awareness of play therapy, we advocate for every child’s right to be seen, heard and supported.

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