“The Internal Family Systems model accesses and heals protective and wounded inner parts. IFS creates inner and outer connectedness by helping people first access their Self and, from that core, to understand and heal their parts.”

Play therapists trained in IFS can utilize “parts work” with children to promote a better understanding of the child’s inner world and increase their Self-trust.

Parts work with children might look different than with adults. Co-regulation is essential, and the more movement, creativity, and visuals involved - - the better!

Some examples of toys and play that can promote parts work are puppets, miniatures, pokemon characters, vehicles, drawings, and instruments. Kiddos might want to identify their emotional parts with a little bit of all of these! 

The idea is that all parts are welcome, honored, and able to have a voice. For example, a child with a frustrated part that gets easily triggered is not viewed as frustrated. The play therapist will help the child, and parents, understand this frustrated part better and offer it some release and relief and the ability to share what it needs from trusted adults in their life.

Caroline Racher Turak