Newton Play Therapy

05/09/2026

05/09/2026

Curious Neuron 💕
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We need to change the language we use to describe young children's struggles with emotions.

This small difference in how we think and speak of our children's emotions would change their behavior because of our changes in behavior. Allow me to explain!
Our thoughts and attitudes influence how we respond to someone (including ourselves). It influences the level of compassion we feel for them. If we have negative thoughts and attitudes, there is more of a chance that we respond with less compassion.

There is lots of negativity towards young children and their displays of big emotions. This is a difficult time for both parents and children and we need to acknowledge that as well. Emotional outbursts are normal in kids. This is how their brain is asking for help because it doesn't know what to do with this emotion. The more we can model how to experience sadness, disappointment, anger etc. the more tools our children will have.

I personally don't like the word tantrum. I hear it being used for babies as well when in the end, each of these kids are simply displaying an emotion. A "tantrum" has a negative association to it. Tantrums are annoying, frustrating, and irritating. But what if we stopped thinking or saying tantrum and describing the emotion our child is currently feeling.

My child is tired, my child is frustrated, my child us disappointed etc. Then, rather than wanting to ignore their "annoying behaviour" we would offer compassion and support since we would do the same for a friend of ours experiencing this emotion. We wouldn't think "My friend is having another tantrum".

05/09/2026

Over the past few decades, the neurodiversity paradigm and movement have emerged as a call to shift outdated and often harmful ableist narratives about neurodivergent individuals and produce more affirming support and therapy. For practitioners, this shift involves understanding and implementing neu...

04/26/2026

Behaviors often get significant attention in neurodivergent children. It is important to recognize that behavior can signal underlying issues such as sensory struggles, challenges with emotional modulation, confusion, anxiety related to social situations, transitions, unexpected changes, fears, trau...

04/25/2026

03/25/2026

Join us for two dynamic days of learning and connection from two true powerhouses in the field of play therapy!

🗓 May 1–2, 2026
📍 DoubleTree by Hilton Nashua

✨ Friday: Robert Jason Grant
Addressing Sensory Processing Needs in Play Therapy
Neurodiversity-affirming, research-informed interventions to support sensory regulation in the playroom.
✨ Saturday: Eliana Gil
Keynote: The Role of Love in Therapy
Post-traumatic play: When children design their own play therapy journey
Understanding trauma-driven play and how client-directed work fosters healing and mastery.

⚠️ Seating is limited. Secure your spot and join us for an inspiring weekend of growth and connection!

https://newenglandplaytherapy.org/events

02/26/2026

A simple grounding technique to stop anxious thinking in its track. This is probably the tool I use most frequently in my practice and with my own children. Try this activity while tucking your child into bed at night for some mindfulness and relaxation!

02/24/2026

Book an appointment online at https://chelsea-welch.clientsecure.me/request/service

02/12/2026

So excited for this year’s NEAPT Conference!

Join us for two powerful days of learning with renowned presenters:

✨ Robert Jason Grant, EdD, LPC, NCC, RPT-S™
Addressing Sensory Processing Needs in Play Therapy
Explore neurodiversity-affirming, sensory-informed play therapy interventions, research, and practical strategies to create sensory-friendly play spaces.

✨ Eliana Gil, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S™
Post-traumatic Play: When Children Design Their Own Play Therapy Journey
Examine the phases, benefits, and clinical applications of post-traumatic play therapy in trauma treatment.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from two internationally recognized leaders in the field of play therapy.

🔗 Register now — seats are limited!
https://newenglandplaytherapy.org/events

02/10/2026

The official NPT Painting Champion is… Mollie!!!