July 15, 2026

How to Talk to Your Child About Starting Therapy

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So you’ve decided to pursue play therapy for your child. That’s a big, courageous step. Now comes the next question: how do you tell them?

This is one of the most common questions we get from parents, and it’s an important one. How you introduce therapy sets the tone for how your child experiences it. The good news: it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Start with Honesty — Age-Appropriate Honesty

Children are perceptive. They know when something’s up. Rather than surprising them with a trip to “the doctor” (which can feel scary and erode trust), tell them in advance, in simple, honest terms.

For younger children (ages 3–7):

“You know how sometimes you have big feelings that are hard to talk about? There’s a special place called a playroom where kids go to play and figure out their feelings. You’re going to get to go there every week and play with [therapist’s name].”

For older children (ages 8–12):

“I’ve found someone who helps kids with the stuff that’s been hard lately. Her name is [therapist’s name], and she has a playroom where you can play, talk, draw — whatever feels right. It’s your time to do whatever helps you.”

What to Say — and What Not to Say

Do say:

“It’s a place just for you.”
“You get to choose what to do.”
“It’s a grown-up’s job to help kids, and this is one way I’m helping.”
“You can tell me about it if you want, but you don’t have to.”

Avoid:

“There’s something wrong with you.” (Even if you don’t say this directly, watch for phrasing that implies it.)
“You need to be fixed.”
“We’re going because of your behaviour.” (This frames therapy as punishment.)
“It’s like a doctor’s appointment.” (This can trigger medical anxiety.)

Address the “Why Me?” Question

Older children, especially, may wonder why they’re going to therapy when their friends aren’t. Normalize it:

“Lots of kids go to play therapy — for all sorts of reasons. It’s not because something’s wrong with you. It’s because everyone sometimes needs a place to figure things out, and this is yours.”

You don’t need to go into detail about your specific concerns. In fact, it’s often better not to — the playroom is where those things get worked out, and naming them beforehand can make a child feel labelled or defensive.

Keep It Low-Pressure

Frame therapy as something they get to do, not something they have to do. The playroom is a special place, and the relationship with the therapist is something to look forward to.

After the first session, avoid the interrogation: “How was it? What did you do? Did you talk about your feelings?” Instead, try a simple, open: “How are you feeling?” If they want to share, great. If not, that’s okay too.

What If They Resist?

Some children are reluctant at first. This is normal. Don’t force it, but don’t immediately cancel either. Talk to us about it — resistance is often rich therapeutic material, and there are many gentle ways to help a hesitant child feel safe in the playroom.

You’re Already Doing It Right

The fact that you’re reading this, thinking about how to make this transition smooth for your child, tells us something important: you’re a caring, thoughtful parent. That’s the foundation everything else is built on.

Questions about getting started? Visit the contact page or book an intake session — we’re happy to talk through any concerns.