September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honour the brave children and families facing the challenges of cancer. While the physical toll of childhood cancer is well-documented, it’s important to recognise the emotional and psychological impact as well. One therapeutic approach that has proven invaluable in supporting children with cancer is play therapy. Through the language of play, children can express their feelings, process their experiences, and find a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of illness.
The Emotional Impact of Childhood Cancer
A cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event, not only for the child but for the entire family. Children with cancer often endure long hospital stays, painful treatments, and the emotional strain of being separated from friends, school, and everyday activities. The uncertainty of their illness can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, anger, and sadness. These emotions are complex and difficult to express, especially for young children who may not yet have the words to describe what they are experiencing.
The Role of Play Therapy
Play therapy offers a unique and effective way for children to communicate what they are going through. In play therapy, toys, games, and creative activities are used as tools to help children express their thoughts and emotions. This form of therapy recognises that play is a child’s natural way of understanding and interacting with the world.
For children with cancer, play therapy provides a safe space where they can explore their feelings without judgment. Whether they are reenacting hospital experiences with dolls, drawing pictures of their emotions, or engaging in imaginative play, children can use these sessions to process their experiences. This helps them regain a sense of control, which is often lost in the medical environment.
Supporting Emotional Resilience
One of the key benefits of play therapy is its ability to build emotional resilience. Children undergoing cancer treatment are frequently subjected to painful procedures and may experience traumatic memories associated with their illness. Play therapy can help them work through these experiences, reducing the intensity of their fears and anxieties.
For example, a child might use play to confront their fear of needles by pretending to give a shot to a stuffed animal. By taking on the role of the caregiver, the child can gain a sense of mastery over the situation, which can translate into a reduced fear response during actual medical procedures.
Strengthening Family Bonds
Cancer affects the entire family and play therapy can also be beneficial for parents and siblings. Family play therapy sessions provide an opportunity for all members to express their feelings and concerns in a supportive environment. These sessions can help strengthen family bonds, improve communication, and foster a sense of unity as the family navigates the challenges of cancer together.
Finding Joy and Normalcy
Amidst the challenges of cancer treatment, play therapy offers a much-needed outlet for joy and creativity. Engaging in play allows children to momentarily escape the confines of their illness and just be kids again. This sense of normalcy is crucial for their mental well-being, helping them maintain a positive outlook even during the most difficult times.
Conclusion
As we observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, it’s important to recognize the holistic needs of children with cancer. While medical treatment is essential, so too is the emotional and psychological support that play therapy provides. By offering children a safe space to express their emotions, build resilience, and find moments of joy, play therapy plays a vital role in their overall healing journey.
Supporting organisations that provide play therapy, spreading awareness about its benefits, and advocating for the inclusion of therapeutic play in paediatric oncology care can make a significant difference in the lives of these courageous children and their families. Together, we can ensure that every child with cancer has access to the comprehensive care they need to thrive, both physically and emotionally.