Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs & Child-Centred Play Therapy
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs & Child-Centred Play Therapy: Supporting Children’s Growth and Wellbeing
Every child has an innate drive to grow, explore, and connect with the world around them. But just like a plant needs sunlight, water, and rich soil to thrive, children need their core needs met before they can reach their full potential. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, a well-known psychological framework, helps us understand these essential building blocks, and coupled with child-centred play therapy offers a powerful way to nurture them.
Understanding Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Maslow’s Hierarchy outlines five levels of human needs, arranged in a pyramid. At the base are physiological needs (food, sleep, safety), followed by emotional and relational needs (security, love, belonging). Higher up, children develop confidence, self-worth, and ultimately, the ability to reach their full potential. When these needs are unmet, children may struggle with emotional regulation, social interactions, and learning. Understanding this framework allows us to see children’s behaviours as signals, helping us respond with empathy rather than frustration (Delahooke, 2020; Porges, 2011).
How Child-Centred Play Therapy Supports These Needs Child-centred play therapy, rooted in the work of Landreth, provides a safe and nurturing space where children can express themselves freely. This approach honours the child’s intrinsic drive towards growth by meeting them where they are and allowing them to process experiences at their own pace. Here’s how it aligns with Maslow’s framework:
Safety & Security – The play therapy space is a consistent, predictable environment where children feel physically and emotionally safe. This sense of security is foundational for healing and growth (Ray, 2011).
Love & Belonging – Through the therapist’s warmth, acceptance, and attuned presence, children experience what it means to be seen, heard, and valued. This strengthens their sense of connection and belonging.
Self-Esteem & Confidence – In play therapy, children lead the way, making choices and experiencing a sense of control. This fosters confidence, self-efficacy, and resilience.
Emotional Expression & Regulation – Play is a child’s natural language. In the therapy space, they process emotions, practice problem-solving, and develop self-regulation skills that transfer into everyday life.
Self-Actualisation – As children feel secure, connected, and confident, they become more capable of exploring the world with curiosity and creativity. Their ability to form relationships, engage in learning, and navigate challenges strengthens (Weissbourd, 2020).
Bringing These Principles into Everyday Life
Parents and caregivers can support their child’s needs outside of therapy by:
Creating predictable routines to build a sense of safety.
Offering unconditional love and validation.
Encouraging open-ended play to foster confidence and problem-solving.
Listening with curiosity to help children feel seen and understood.
Supporting emotional expression through play, art, and storytelling.
At Inspiring Play: Child & Family Play Therapy Sunshine Coast, we understand that parenting can feel overwhelming at times. If you’re noticing your child struggling with big emotions, behaviour challenges, or confidence, play therapy can provide a safe and healing space. You’re not alone—support is here. Reach out to learn more about how we can help nurture your child’s emotional well-being and development.