Hard Conversations with Children: A Child-Centered approach to tough moments, big feelings, and everyday connection

Children often communicate through behavior before they have the words to explain what they are feeling. This interactive training introduces practical skills from Child-Centered Play Therapy that parents, educators, and caregivers can use in everyday interactions with children. Participants will learn play therapy-inspired communication tools that help children feel seen, understood, and emotionally safe. Through demonstrations, reflection activities, and examples, attendees will practice skills including reflective responding, tracking behavior and feelings, therapeutic limit setting, and supporting emotional regulation. The training will explore behavior as communication and examine how power struggles, shame, and disconnection affect relationships with children. Participants will learn ways to respond to difficult moments while maintaining both connection and boundaries. Topics include reflective listening, emotional regulation, limit setting, imaginative play, and responding to difficult emotions with curiosity rather than control. No clinical experience is required. Designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who works closely with children.