Resources and References

The following resources are provided for general information and support. They do not replace play therapy or professional advice.

Play Therapy Resources for Parents

The following resources provide general information about play therapy, children’s emotional development, and ways to support your child through play at home.

Association for Play Therapy – Parents Corner
Learn how play therapy supports children experiencing anxiety, trauma, or behavioural challenges.
https://www.a4pt.org/general/custom.asp?page=ParentsCornerHomePag

British Association of Play Therapists – Free Resources
Guides to help parents understand how play therapy supports emotional and behavioural development.
https://bapt.info

Evidence-Based Child Therapy
Videos and parent-friendly resources on effective therapeutic approaches for children’s mental health.
https://evidencebasedchildtherapy.com

Learn to Play Therapy
Free flyers and books supporting imaginative play at home, complementing Learn to Play therapy approaches.
https://learntoplaytherapy.com

Raising Children Network (Australia)
Evidence-based parenting information developed by Australian experts, covering child development, behaviour, emotions, and wellbeing.
https://raisingchildren.net.au

Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
Podcasts and videos explaining play therapy and emotional development through connection.
https://synergeticplaytherapy.com

Therapist Aid
Printable activities to support emotional regulation, anxiety management, and self-esteem.
https://therapistaid.com

Australian Parenting Support Services

These Australian-based services provide trusted parenting support and guidance.

• Raising Children Network
Trusted Australian parenting advice on child development, behaviour, and support services.
https://raisingchildren.net.au

• Nagala Parenting Line
Free phone and webchat support for WA parents offering guidance on child behaviour and development.
https://www.ngala.com.au

• Parenting Research Centre
Evidence-informed programs and resources to support Australian families.
https://parentingrc.org.a

References

Grow & Thrive Play Therapy is grounded in evidence-informed practice. The following professional texts and resources have informed the information provided on this website.

Research and Professional References

  1. VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy. Guilford Press.

  2. Gardner, K., & Yasenik, L. (2012). Play Therapy Dimensions Model (3rd ed.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

  3. Schaefer, C. (2011). Foundations of Play Therapy (2nd ed.). John Wiley & Sons.

  4. VanFleet, R. (2022). A Parent’s Handbook of Filial Therapy (3rd ed.). Play Therapy Press.

  5. Ray, D. (2021). Advanced Play Therapy. Taylor & Francis.

  6. Ray, D. (2016). The Therapist’s Guide to Child Development. Routledge.

  7. Landreth, G. (2012). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (3rd ed.).

  8. Schaefer, C. E., & Drewes, A. A. (2014). The Therapeutic Powers of Play (2nd ed.). John Wiley & Sons.

  9. Stagnitti, K. (2021). Learn to Play Therapy: Principles, Processes and Practical Activities (2nd ed.). Learn to Play.

  10. Stagnitti, K. (2020). Pretend Play Enjoyment Developmental Checklist. Learn to Play.

  11. Stagnitti, K., & Cooper, R. (2009). Play as Therapy: Assessment and Therapeutic Interventions. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

  12. VanFleet, R., & Thompson, T. (2017). Animal-Assisted Play Therapy. Professional Resource Press.

  13. Homeyer, L., & Bennett, M. (2023). The Guide to Play Therapy Documentation and Parent Consultation.Routledge.