Calming Play Dough
The Calming Power of Play Dough: A Tool for Emotional Regulation
I will never tire of promoting the benefits of play dough. As a potter myself, I find using clay a soothing and calming hobby. Similarly, I see these same benefits with play dough. In my 20-plus years of teaching kindergarten, I loved seeing children, parents, and staff connecting as they played with play dough. It’s more than just a fun activity; it’s a powerful tool for emotional regulation and stress relief.
Research has shown that engaging in tactile activities like kneading play dough can have profound calming effects on the nervous system. When we use our hands in repetitive, rhythmic motions, such as rolling, pressing, and shaping play dough, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s natural way of calming down. This system is often referred to as the "rest and digest" response, and it plays a critical role in helping us manage stress and regulate our emotions .
For children, this kind of sensory play is essential. The act of molding and shaping dough provides them with a sense of control, which is particularly important when they feel overwhelmed. Dr. Stephen Porges, known for his work on the Polyvagal Theory, emphasizes how sensory activities like play dough can help children feel safe and grounded by stimulating the vagus nerve, leading to a state of calm and improved emotional regulation .
Incorporating play dough into daily routines can be beneficial for both children and adults. For children, it can be a grounding activity that helps them process emotions, particularly when words are hard to find. According to Dr. Mona Delahooke, a clinical psychologist who specializes in child development, sensory play is a crucial way for children to explore and make sense of their emotions, offering a non-verbal outlet for expression .
From a child-centred play therapy perspective, play dough serves as a bridge between the child’s inner world and the external world, allowing them to work through feelings in a safe and manageable way. This aligns with the principles of Child-Centred Play Therapy, which highlight the importance of giving children the freedom to express themselves through play, fostering emotional growth and resilience .
At Inspiring Play: Child and Family Play Therapy Sunshine Coast, we see the transformative power of play dough in our sessions. It’s a simple yet effective tool that can help your child navigate their emotions, build resilience, and find calm in the midst of life’s challenges. I encourage parents to incorporate play dough into their children’s routines at home as a way to support their emotional well-being.
Key Takeaways for Families:
Use play dough as a calming tool: Encourage your child to engage with play dough when they feel anxious or overwhelmed.
Create a play dough routine: Integrate play dough time into daily routines or set up a sensory station for your child as a regular practice for emotional regulation.
Join in the play: Engage with your child during play dough activities to strengthen your bond and provide a calming presence.
Observe your child’s play: Notice the themes and patterns in your child’s play dough creations, as they can offer insights into their emotional state.
Incorporating play dough into your child’s life is a simple yet powerful way to support their emotional health. Whether it’s through individual play or shared moments with family, the benefits are profound. If you’d like to explore more ways to help your child manage their emotions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Inspiring Play. We’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Inspiring play offers Paediatric Allied Health Therapy Services to the Sunshine Coast
References:
Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. W.W. Norton & Company.
Delahooke, M. (2020). Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children’s Behavioral Challenges. PESI Publishing & Media.