What is one way to incorporate functional play in therapy sessions?

Incorporating functional play in therapy sessions can be effectively achieved by using toys that represent real-life tasks. This approach allows children to engage in play activities that mimic everyday functions, thereby enhancing their understanding and skills in a practical context. For instance, when children use play sets that involve cooking, cleaning, or shopping, they can practice important life skills in a safe and supportive environment. This type of play not only promotes cognitive and motor skills but also encourages social interaction and communication as children often play together or role-play various scenarios.

In contrast, allowing free play without guidance may not focus on specific skills that need development, and focusing only on games with rules can limit creativity and spontaneity in learning. Additionally, eliminating play from sessions entirely would deprive children of a vital method for learning and practicing new skills in a natural setting, which is crucial for their overall development. Thus, using toys that represent real-life tasks provides a structured yet playful way to promote learning and skill acquisition in therapy.