At Flourish Dyslexia, we offer Drawing and Talking and Sand Play as gentle, therapeutic approaches to support children and young people who may be experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, trauma or attachment difficulties.

These approaches are not diagnostic or clinical. Instead, they offer a safe, consistent space for a child to explore their inner world through symbolic play and creativity, supported by a trusted adult.

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What is Drawing and Talking?

Drawing and Talking is a non-directive, therapeutic approach that allows children to express feelings they may not yet have words for.

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It involves one-to-one sessions, once a week for around 12 weeks, with the same trained adult in a quiet, contained space. Each session lasts around 30 minutes. The full 12-week programme is currently priced at £249.

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The child draws freely and, if they choose to, can share a story about their picture. The adult follows the child’s lead without interpreting, analysing or probing. This gentle approach supports children to process their thoughts and emotions safely and gradually - especially important if talking about their experiences feels overwhelming or difficult.

 

What is Sand Play?

Sand Play is another non-directive method that uses miniature figures and a tray of sand to allow children to create scenes, stories and worlds that reflect their inner experiences.

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As with Drawing and Talking, the child leads the process, freely choosing and placing figures however they wish. The adult gently observes, providing a calm, containing presence.

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Sand Play can be especially helpful for children who are:

• Experiencing high levels of anxiety or emotional overwhelm

• Non-verbal or have limited verbal language

• Processing early experiences, trauma or loss

• Needing support to feel safe and regulated
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Over time, patterns, themes or symbolic journeys may appear in the sand scenes, all held without judgement or interpretation.

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Why Drawing and Talking or Sand Play?​

These approaches draw on ideas from:

• Attachment theory: Consistency and a warm, attuned relationship create a "secure base" from which children can safely explore.

• Jungian psychology: Children often express their inner world through symbols, stories and images, rather than words.

• Trauma-informed practice: There is no expectation for children to re-tell traumatic events. The focus is on emotional safety, trust and co-regulation.

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These approaches can support children with:

• Anxiety, low mood or emotional distress

• Behaviour that challenges or confuses

• Difficulties with relationships or trust

• Low self-esteem or confidence

• Processing loss, separation or change
   

Both Drawing and Talking and Sand Play give children the time and space to:

• Process feelings at their own pace

• Build trust within a consistent, calm relationship

• Express themselves through symbols and stories

• Feel seen, heard and emotionally contained
   

There is no pressure for a child to talk about what is difficult. Instead, they are met with acceptance, warmth and presence, allowing healing and emotional growth to unfold gently over time.

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Interested in Finding Out More?

If you’d like to explore whether Drawing and Talking or Sand Play could support your child, please get in touch. You can use our contact form or email info@flourishdyslexia.com - we’re happy to answer any questions.

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To confirm your booking, a £50 deposit is required, with the remaining balance due 7 days before the first session. Please note, the programme may run longer than 12 sessions to accommodate school holidays.

 

You can also find more information in our downloads section.

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