Ever wonder if your child’s big emotions, challenging behavior, or social struggles are just part of growing up—or something more? In this post, a child therapist breaks down what’s developmentally appropriate at different ages, what red flags to look for, and how play therapy can support your child’s emotional growth.

Feeling overwhelmed as a parent—or noticing your child struggling to stay calm? This post explores how simple, everyday mindfulness practices can help both of you pause and reset. Learn how tuning into nature, using your senses, and taking intentional breaths can reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and create meaningful moments of connection.

Big feelings are part of growing up—but they don’t have to overwhelm your child or your home. In this post, we explore three therapist-backed strategies to help children name and navigate their emotions with confidence. Learn how tools like emotion labeling, visual charts, and storytelling can support your child’s emotional development, build resilience, and foster a deeper parent-child connection. Whether you're facing daily meltdowns or just want to nurture emotional intelligence, these simple, practical tips can make a big difference. And if your child needs extra support, HeartsPlay is here to help with compassionate, play-based counseling services.

Struggling to keep your child grounded during the long summer days? This post shares practical, therapist-informed tips for creating a simple summer routine that supports emotional regulation, reduces chaos, and gives kids the structure they need to thrive. Includes fun San Antonio activities like Brackenridge Park visits and local art workshops for kids.

Play is the language of children — and in play therapy, it becomes a powerful tool for healing. At HeartsPlay, we use creative tools like art, sand trays, and games to help kids express big feelings, process change, and build emotional strength in a safe, supportive space.

Kids don’t always have the words to say they’re overwhelmed—but their behavior often shows it. From sudden meltdowns to extra silliness or shutting down, these signs are often a child’s way of saying, “It’s too much.” In this post, we’ll explore how to recognize overwhelm and simple ways to help your child find calm again.

Ever wonder why your child can go from calm to meltdown in seconds? It might be because they’re outside their Window of Tolerance — the brain’s ideal zone for managing emotions. In this post, we’ll explore what the Window of Tolerance is, how it impacts your child’s behavior, and simple ways to help your child grow their ability to handle big feelings with confidence and connection.

Wondering how to handle your child’s meltdowns? Big feelings aren’t bad behavior — they’re part of healthy emotional development. In this post, we’ll share practical tips for parents on managing tantrums with calm and compassion, why emotional regulation takes time, and how to become your child’s safe place during difficult moments. Learn how to support your child’s emotional health with guidance from HeartsPlay located in San Antonio, Texas.