Hi play therapy friends,
Hello and Happy August!
In my last Presidential Pondering, I challenged myself to incorporate play into my days and share with you all my reflections. My challenge to myself entails doing things for the enjoyment of doing them, rather than doing something for the outcome. My first intentional act of play has been re-learning the Cat’s Cradle game. This game uses a single string, and you can create different shapes by yourself or play with another person to keep the shapes intact. I played this game so much growing up! I would play by myself and even with my sister and mom. This simple game was so fun for all of us. I recently remembered this game, ordered the kit on Amazon, and followed the instructions for the shapes. I had a blast re-learning this game and had a lot of nostalgia. Does anyone else remember this game? After I bought the kit and relearned the game, I added the string into my playroom. I am excited to use this game with clients to promote collaboration, distress tolerance, and so much more!
Also, a new thing MIAPT has implemented is a conference scholarship! MIAPT will be offering a Scholarship Award to one or two awardees in support of ensuring our MIAPT Annual Conference is more accessible to our mental health community. All completed applications received by the deadline of September 1, 2024 will be reviewed by the MIAPT Board of Directors. For questions or additional information, please contact MIAPT Past President, Diana Steketee via email at dstek@sbcglobal.net. All completed applications must be submitted to dstek@sbcglobal.net on or before September 1, 2024 at 1pm. Visit https://www.miapt.org/Annual-Conference to learn more!
We have two upcoming events at MIAPT. First, we have “Pawsitive Solutions: ADHD and Play Therapy” on September 20th. Mary Rottier will speak on using play therapy as a therapeutic approach for children with ADHD. This is a virtual training. We also have our West Regional Workshop 2024 on November 8th. Sophia Ansari will speak on the therapeutic benefits of nature and using nature in expressive arts and play. This workshop will be held in-person in Grand Rapids at Bethany Christian Services. What amazing opportunities to train in these important topics and connect with others in our play therapy community!
Playfully,
Abby
Abby Rainey, LMSW-Clinical, Registered Play Therapist™
President, MIAPT 2024-2025
