Navigating the world of supporting our children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) means constantly learning about different approaches and resources that might help them thrive. Just like working out things like DLA or finding accessible places to go out, sometimes exploring the world of therapies can feel like stepping onto a whole new path.
At Fun and play, our goal is to highlight activities and support that allow every child to truly belong. While we often hear about core therapies like speech and language therapy (SLT), occupational therapy (OT), and physiotherapy (physio), there is growing interest in other approaches that tap into a child’s creativity and emotional world. So let’s talk about creative therapies in the early years, especially play therapy and art therapy. 🎨🧸
What are creative therapies?
Creative therapies like play therapy and art therapy offer children a different way to communicate and process their experiences. For young children, especially those who may be nonverbal or have communication differences, traditional talk-based therapy is not always suitable.
✨ Play therapy involves using play as the main tool for expression. A trained play therapist provides a safe and engaging environment where children can explore feelings, solve problems and communicate through toys and play. Since play is how young children naturally learn and make sense of the world, this approach can be especially effective.
🖌️ Art therapy uses activities like drawing, painting, sculpting or collage to help children express themselves. It is not about producing perfect artwork, but about the experience of creating and what it might represent emotionally.
These types of therapy can offer a safe and nurturing way for children to work through worries, build social skills or simply express emotions they do not yet have words for.
Can creative therapies be included in an ehcp?
This is a question many families wonder about. parents are keen to understand if therapies like play therapy or art therapy can be specified and funded through an education, health and care plan (EHCP).
If you believe a creative therapy is necessary to meet your child's needs as outlined in section B of their EHCP, then in principle it could be included in section F (provision). however, getting these therapies written into an EHCP is not always straightforward compared to standard therapies like SLT, OT and physio.
To help build a strong case, you would usually need a report from a qualified therapist, such as a registered play therapist, art therapist or possibly a clinical psychologist, who has assessed your child and recommended the therapy. this report can provide key evidence to support your request during the EHCP application or review process.
The EHCP should clearly specify the type of therapy, the level of support, how often it is delivered and whether it includes direct or indirect contact. If a creative therapy is included, it is important that it is fully detailed.
Creative outlets for parents too 💚
Supporting a child with SEND is rewarding, but it can also be intense. That is why it is just as important for us as parent carers to have our own creative moments too.
Creative activities are not just for children! Our local area offers some lovely options for parent carers to relax and express themselves. organisations like Family Voice Surrey have offered arty crafty sessions just for parent carers of children aged 0 to 25. Sometimes these are even free, which is a bonus!
Even small things, like picking up a sketchbook or playing music, can be a form of self-care. one parent in our community even mentioned how relaxing they found playing their electric piano. these outlets help us reset and reconnect with ourselves and each other.
If you are a parent carer of a disabled child under 18 living in Surrey and are not currently receiving support from surrey county council children’s services or have a social worker, you may be eligible for a parent carer break grant. these grants are designed to provide a well-deserved break or support for parent carers. The funds can be used for various purposes, such as a family holiday, a short break for parents, training courses, childcare to give parents a break, contributions towards your child accessing play or activities, days out, or equipment to assist you in your caring role. Applications must be made on your behalf by a professional working with your family, this could be a carers support worker, teacher, health visitor, early years support coordinator, or similar, following the completion of a carer’s assessment or early help assessment. Once the application is submitted, you will be contacted to discuss your needs, and if approved, the payment will follow shortly afterwards. For more details, speak to any professional working with you or your child.
Exploring creative therapies for our little ones and creative outlets for ourselves can be valuable parts of the SEND journey. including creative therapy in an EHCP might take some extra steps, but the emotional and developmental benefits can be huge. Taking time for your own creativity? Well, that is definitely something to prioritise too. 🎶🖍️💛