While in the playroom the Starsky is an active part of the session. The therapist often makes reflective tracking statements to the Starsky instead of directly to the child. We have found this incorporates another living being into the session and allows the child to better accept the tracking of feelings and behaviors. Starsky sometimes is involved in the session, he may play a police dog, a shop customer or anything that the child can imagine.
Starsky is currently working with children to help build their confidence or work on their focus skills by teaching him basic commands and using clicker training and treats. I'm not sure who enjoys it more - Starsky or the children?
What Activities are Available?
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We offer both directive (activities chosen by the therapist) and nondirective (activities chosen by the child) interventions with Starsky.
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Children can help in training the dog in both basic agility and obedience commands
Benefits of Animal Assisted Play Therapy
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Helps establish rapport quickly, capitalizing on the natural interest that children have in animals
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Improves social skills and confidence levels of children while also decreasing their aggressive and maladaptive behaviors
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Enhances a child’s self-esteem and promotes the expression of feelings.
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Fosters healthy attachment relationships, not only with the dog, but also with people.
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Develops children’s empathy, sharing, and care-giving capabilities.
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Helps children share traumatic experiences in an emotionally safe way.
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Provides an opportunity to help children overcome a fear of dogs
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Offers nurturance through a presentation of unconditional acceptance and interaction
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Improves cooperation and problem-solving ability