239 | The Power of "Yet": A Simple Word That Changes Reflective Responding in Child-Centered Play Therapy

Episode summary

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I share a simple but powerful "Pro Tip": the importance of adding the word "yet" when returning responsibility to children in the playroom. When children struggle to accomplish something and feel frustrated or defeated, our well-meaning phrases like, "You can do it!" can sometimes come across as dismissive. By adding the word "yet," as in, "You haven't figured it out yet," we acknowledge the child's struggle while also instilling hope and confidence that success is still possible.

I explain how this small shift in language helps maintain the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) principles of returning responsibility and esteem-building, while avoiding the disconnect that can occur when a child feels they've failed. This approach supports children in continuing their self-actualizing work, even when they choose to take a break from their challenges. It's a subtle but effective way to encourage without invalidating their experience.