This passing world is as short as a dream. When at play, a person thinks that it would be good to play all night long. Yet every game has its form and measure. Form and measure change according to the times. Suitable form and measure are desirable, and so are games that correspond to one’s own self.
- Takuan (1573-1645) courtesy of dailyzen.com

One of the joys of being a psychotherapist is engaging in play therapy with children. Parents bring their child in with concerns about their excessive worries, angry outbursts, or difficulties playing with other children. We learn so much in being witness to and a part of the child’s play. Their inner world is presented to us in such a pure manner. The behaviors that disrupt their lives appear and we have the opportunity to help them connect to the form and measure they need to learn new ways of expressing themselves and acquire a new confidence in who they can be. We share our observations and experiences with their parents, joining them in finding effective ways of guiding and supporting their child’s development. Creativity and play are essential parts of the potential space for all of us to grow and develop. Form and measure provide the frame for these transformations to happen. Children remind us how important games and playing can be in helping us to learn new ways of expressing ourselves and acquire a new confidence in who we can be.