What is sandtray ?
Sandtray is a medium that allows you to build 'worlds' in a tray of sand, using three-dimensional miniature objects. The figures are selected from an array of representational objects, depicting such things as animals, people, cars, trains, trees and buildings. You have the opportunity to construct whatever you want; place or remove objects at will, manipulate them, make up stories, assign roles, etc.
In short, you can create a world of your imagination.
Sandtray is often lauded for its therapeutic benefits. At sandtrayworks, we offer the medium largely for self-exploration, creative expression, story-telling, clarification of ideas, and just plain fun. For children, it is a wonderful way to spend an hour or two. For adults, the time can fly, as often one grows wholly absorbed in the process. Artists, executives and writers alike have discovered inspiration, joy, and expansion of thought working with this process. Many also find it beneficial in getting past creative blocks, considering their dreams, or as part of personal journaling.
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applications. Click here
for an example of some sandtray worlds.
What happens in a sandtray session ?
When you come to sandtrayworks, you will be invited to create a 'world in the sand'. There often is little discussion while this is happening; at other times, people find they have much to say. Toward the end of the session, we will chat about your sandtray construction. A photographic record is made for later reflection and, of course, happy posterity.*
For those coming for a series of visits, we will periodically review all your worlds. I often have found there is a narrative arc to the worlds, in which there are recurring themes, stories told across sessions, issues and 'stuck' places loosened over time.
We also offer sessions focusing on journaling and, as well, exploring dreams.
Ask about group events, story-making and narrative applications for young learners. We are also available for online sessions, using an interactive whiteboard.
* People often find the images wonderful for creating gifts: they can be reproduced as framed prints or card sets. Children also delight in making storied books, using their sandtray constuctions as illustrations.
nancy berkan, M.Ed. (Ph.D. deferred) l sandtrayworks l new york NY l cambridge MA l all rights reserved © 2011-15
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Key words: sandtray sand play therapy kids activities, learning, SPED, learning disabilities, ADHD, divorce, behavioral issues, psychology, reading, playtime, storytelling, brain injury, tbi, trauma, journaling, Lowenfeld
