Creative Way to Use Pipe Cleaners in Play Therapy
- Tasha Milligan
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
There are many creative ways to use pipe cleaners in play therapy, but some are absolutely fantastic. I've scoured the web for some inspiration, and it hasn't disappointed. There are so many ideas, as each of these offers different metaphors and ways to incorporate symbolism into therapy. Here's what I've found:
by The Spruce Crafts
These little dragons remind me of one of my most used games, Medieval Minds. It is all about understanding the fight, flight, or freeze response. They would be great take-home reminders of the need to calm your body when triggered.
by One Little Project
These little butterfly rings are cute and affordable. I love the symbolism of butterflies - we all go through metamorphais of sorts as we heal and grow. They could sybolise what has been and what now is, or if they feel that they are in the caterpillar stage of life, they could offer hope of what is yet to come. There are plenty of ways to use imagery to create a storyline for kids.
by Cultivate
Flowers can represent many things in therapy. One of my favorite things is self-esteem and body image. Flowers come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors. Each is lovely in its own way. For more on this, be sure to grab my free eBook, Tend the Garden of Your Heart.
Related Post: Why Play Games in Therapy?
by One LIttle Project
Who doesn't love finger puppets!? These could be engaging and help with storytelling. They also appear to be simple to create. I know that when kids have their hands busy, they are ready to chat! Some of the best therapy happens when they are engaged in a craft. Need more puppet ideas? See this post on all things puppets in play therapy.
by Hello Wonderful
I love the idea of using pipe cleaners to make dolls! There are many doll options online, but these mermaids are beautiful. It would be fun to hear of the adventures kids dream up for thse little mermaids.
by One Little Project
For an easier doll option, these are pretty cute. All the supplies would be easy to find at the dollar store and you could switch up many aspects of these dolls to create a whole collection of characters.
by DIY Thought
It might take some shopping to find the right pipe cleaners, but these are fun little monsters. These could be fun for processing fears, intrusive thoughts, and possibly trauma. Be sure to check out this post on how to use monsters in therapy.
Related Post: Coping Skill Toolbox Ideas
by Postage Master
Need cars for your office? These look fun! I love the different designs and colors. Kids always enjoy taking things home from the therapy room. These would be a fun option.
by Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
There are so many ways to make superheroes therapuetic! They provide so many avenues for storytelling, processing trauma, creative play, and overcoming fears. We often roleplay and create stories with Superheroes, but this will allow them to take it home as a visual reminder of the work done in session.
Easy Pipe Cleaner Dinosaurs
by Craft Be 9
Who knew you could make cute little dinosaurs from pipecleaners? So fun!
Pipe Cleaner Swords
by Christ and Crafts
Kids often ruminate about safety and self-protection. I have found this especially true for children who have experienced early childhood trauma. They tend to fixate on weapons. This craft might help kids explore these intrusive thoughts and ways to feel safe without having to have a real sword under the pillow.
Pipe Cleaner Glasses
by Craft Be 9
I'm all about metaphors and symbolis in counseling. Glasses can help you see things from a new perspective. You could totally use these to help kids comprehend CBT skills. They could also be a reminder to pay attention to their surroundings and to be watchful. All you need is some creativity and you can amp up your therpeutic interventions.
Pipe Cleaner Spiders
by Fuzzy Pipe Cleaner
I see a lot of exposure therapy here! I HATE spiders! This could be a fun way to practice sitting with the uncomfortable feelings of something you'd rather avoid all together. I also found several snake tutorials online.
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