Non DirectivePlay TherapyEFFICACY Research is lacking on the
overall effectiveness of using toys in non-directive play
therapy.
Dell Lebo found that out of a sample of over 4,000 children,
those who played with recommended toys vs non-recommended or no
toys during non-directive play therapy were not more likely to
verbally express themselves to the therapist. Recommended toys
dolls or crayons
Non-recommended toys marbles or checker game.Other research
shows that following specific criteria when choosing toys in
non-directive play therapy can make treatment more efficacious.
Criteria for a desirable treatment toy include a toy that
facilitates contact with the child, encourages catharsis and lead
to play that can be easily interpreted by a therapist. Rasmussen
and Cunningham argue that progress can take much longer than that
of a more focused approach (directive play therapy).
