Application and progress of psychological sand table play therapy in children's rehabilitation - Report - MDSpire

Application and progress of psychological sand table play therapy in children's rehabilitation

  • By

  • Xuemei He

  • Chonyang Din

  • Xueyan He

  • Yun Liu

  • June 16, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Clinical Report: Advancements and Utilization of Sandplay Therapy in Pediatric Rehabilitation

Overview

This report reviews the application and recent advances of sandplay therapy in pediatric rehabilitation, highlighting its efficacy in addressing psychological trauma and emotional dysregulation. The findings suggest that sandplay therapy can enhance social competence and cognitive development in children facing various challenges.

Background

Sandplay therapy serves as a non-verbal therapeutic approach, particularly beneficial for children with language limitations or psychological trauma. It allows for symbolic expression, making it suitable for addressing the psychological needs of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, emotional issues, and behavioral problems. Understanding its application is crucial for improving therapeutic outcomes in pediatric rehabilitation settings.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the article.

Key Findings

  • Sandplay therapy effectively reduces social withdrawal in school children by providing a safe environment for trauma expression.
  • A randomized controlled trial indicated that sandplay therapy alleviates anxiety and social behavior problems in children with chronic diseases.
  • Sandplay therapy has been shown to enhance language expression and social participation in children with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Current research on sandplay therapy in China is limited, primarily consisting of case studies with small sample sizes.
  • There is a need for further exploration of sandplay therapy's effectiveness for children with chronic diseases or disabilities.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider integrating sandplay therapy into pediatric rehabilitation programs, especially for children with communication barriers or psychological trauma. The therapy's non-verbal nature allows for effective engagement with children, facilitating emotional expression and cognitive development.

Conclusion

Sandplay therapy presents a promising intervention in pediatric rehabilitation, with evidence supporting its efficacy in addressing various psychological and emotional challenges in children. Continued research and clinical integration are essential for maximizing its benefits.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Richards, Source, Year -- Sandplay Therapy and Trauma
  2. Judan Tan, Source, Year -- Effects of Sandplay Therapy on Emotional Problems
  3. Lu, L, Source, Year -- Sandplay Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorder
  4. conexiant — Online Program Eases Pediatric Trauma Stress
  5. Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) — Opportunities and Concerns of Gamified, Extended Reality for Home-Based Motor Rehabilitation for Children With Brain Injury: Qualitative Case Study on Design Elements Related to the Engagement and Fatigue Perspectives
  6. phoenix children's medical connection — Spotlight on Neuropsychology: An Integrated Approach to Pediatric Brain Health
  7. The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children
  8. Online Program Eases Pediatric Trauma Stress
  9. Effects of Sandplay Therapy on Emotional Problems and Quality of Life in Children With Central Nervous System Tumors: A Randomized Controlled Trial | Oncology Nursing Society
  10. Frontiers | A systematic review of the effect of sandplay therapy on social communication deficits in children with autism spectrum disorder

Original Source(s)

Related Content