08/11/2026
What an honor to be invited to speak to foster and adoptive families about the importance of connection and play this week at the Rooted Conference hosted by Central Missouri Foster Care and Adoption Association.
“Play is considered the language of children.”
That was one of the central messages from Colleen Smithson during “The Power of Play,” one of four rotating sessions happening this morning at CMFCAA’s Rooted Family Conference.
Smithson, a licensed clinical social worker, registered play therapist and owner of St. Louis Play Therapy, helped caregivers better understand trauma responses and the reasons behind challenging behaviors. Participants practiced simple regulation techniques, including five-finger breathing, grounding exercises and butterfly taps.
Caregivers then put the lesson into action with toys, practicing focused play in which the child leads and the adult remains present, follows along and resists the urge to lecture or correct.
Smithson also reminded families that play can look different for every child, including children who are neurodivergent. Whether it involves toys, art, games or another shared activity, focused one-on-one time can help children express themselves, build trust and strengthen connections with their caregivers.
Tomorrow, families will have an opportunity to practice these skills together with their children.
