01 / Difficult experiences
Rebuilding a sense of security
Disruptions in a child's relationship with a significant caregiver following violence in the home or community, caregiver substance use, sexual abuse, divorce, separation, or loss.
Attachment & family relationships / Oakdale, Minnesota
Connection grows through play.
Theraplay brings children and their caregivers together through playful, nurturing interactions that encourage feelings of safety, joy, and connection.
Understanding Theraplay
A playful approach to emotional and relational well-being.
Theraplay is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for children ages 0–12 who experience emotional or behavioral challenges and their caregivers.
The approach focuses on the relationship between a child and their caregiver, using guided interactions to help build feelings of safety, care, and connection.
When families seek support
When might Theraplay help?
Families may explore Theraplay when children are having difficulty with emotions, behavior, or their relationships with caregivers. Situations described by Milestone include:
02 / Transitions
Navigating changes in care
Changes in placement or caregivers, including experiences related to foster care.
03 / Emotions
Supporting big feelings
Children showing challenging behaviors or struggling to manage their emotions.
04 / Family well-being
Care through health challenges
Physical or mental health difficulties affecting members of the family.
05 / Relationships
Strengthening your bond
Caregivers who would like support in strengthening their relationship with their child.
What sessions involve
Guided play. Shared connection.
In Theraplay, a therapist guides a caregiver and child through playful games, developmentally challenging activities, and nurturing interactions.
These shared experiences are designed to help caregivers respond to and regulate a child's emotions and behavior while communicating care, joy, delight, and safety.
For more information, visit What Is Theraplay? (opens in a new tab) from the Theraplay organization.
The heart of Theraplay
Helping connection feel safe, joyful, and real.
Through these interactions, children can experience care and connection, which may support their overall functioning and relationships.
Caregivers are active participants in this process, sharing experiences that are centered on the relationship.
Connect with Milestone
Curious whether Theraplay is right for your family?
To ask about a first appointment, use our contact form to request a response from our team. The Client Portal is for existing clients.