15 hours 

Three courses are 5 hours each 

Foundations of Therapeutic Play

Child Development Through a Play Lens

Trauma informed Relational Therapeutic Play Approaches 

Trauma-Informed Relational Therapeutic Play Approaches

Trauma-Informed Relational Therapeutic Play Approaches
Course Description
This module introduces trauma-informed principles and explores how trauma affects children's development, behaviour, attachment, and nervous system functioning. Participants learn how relational play experiences can support safety, regulation, connection, and resilience.
Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe the impact of trauma on child development and behaviour.
  2. Explain basic neurobiological responses to stress and trauma.
  3. Identify trauma-informed principles applicable to therapeutic play.
  4. Recognize signs of dysregulation and trauma activation.
  5. Utilize relational play approaches that promote safety and trust including puppetry, game play and sensory activities. 

Trauma Informed RTP - Foundations of Therapeutic Play

Foundations of Therapeutic Play
Course Description
This module introduces participants to the historical, theoretical, and developmental foundations of therapeutic play. Participants will examine why play is considered a child's natural language and how play supports growth, communication, attachment, and emotional expression.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion participants will be able to:
  1. Describe the developmental significance of play across childhood.
  2. Explain the therapeutic powers of play and their application in helping relationships.
  3. Differentiate therapeutic play skills from play therapy.
  4. Identify major theoretical influences on therapeutic play approaches.
  5. Describe the role of the helping professional in facilitating therapeutic play experiences.

Trauma Informed RTP - Development through a Play Lens

Child Development Through a Play Lens
Course Description
Participants examine child development from infancy through adolescence using a play-based perspective. Attention is given to developmental milestones, social-emotional growth, attachment, brain development, and how developmental challenges may be reflected through play.
Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe major developmental milestones from infancy through adolescence.
  2. Explain the relationship between development, attachment, and play.
  3. Identify play behaviours associated with typical developmental stages.
  4. Recognize developmental concerns that may influence children's play.
  5. Adapt play-based interventions to developmental needs.