Chapter 14: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Play Therapy Interventions with African American Male Children

A published report by the American Academy of Pediatrics examined the impact of play upon the emergent child. Play was determined to enhance physical growth and foster agility throughout the child’s development (Ginsburg, 2007). When children engage in play, fine and gross motor skills are positively altered (Frost, 2010). Play is fundamental for children and crucial for the optimal physical development of the child (Roopnarine & Johnson, 2012). Children who are provided ample and adequate play opportunities have better overall health and are less likely to be obese. They are also less likely to experience chronic health problems over the course of their lifetime (Lauer, 2011).