In this episode, I respond to a parent who's navigating a long list of confusing behaviors with her six-year-old — from struggles with socks and underwear to bedtime battles, toileting challenges, emotional outbursts, and power struggles throughout the day. I explain how all of these issues point back to one core theme: control. Children only have control over a few things in their world, and when life feels overwhelming or unpredictable — especially for a child with medical trauma — they hold on tightly wherever they can.
I walk through why these behaviors make sense, how medical experiences amplify a child's need for power, and why so many of the "sensory" issues parents describe are actually tied to anxiety and emotional sensitivity. I also offer guidance on how to shift language around limits, how to understand masking behaviors, and why returning to child-centered play therapy may be helpful as he continues processing what he's been through.
Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
My Book: Device Detox: A Parent's Guide To Reducing Usage, Preventing Tantrums, And Raising Happier Kids - https://a.co/d/bThnKH9
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/
My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/
My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/
Common References:
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Landreth, G.L., & Bratton, S.C. (2019). Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT): An Evidence-Based 10-Session Filial Therapy Model (2nd ed.). Routledge.
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