Sand tray is used in play therapy as a form of expression in which a child can create a scene using miniature objects and figurines in sand. The scene created can reflect the child’s own inner world and gives the child another medium in which to express themselves and experience healing.

Sand can be a sensory experience that encourages a child’s natural expression of emotions and regulation. Many children are unable to put their thoughts and emotions into words. The nonverbal and unstructured nature of the sand tray experience allows children to freely develop their own expressions of situations. Children feel safe because, even though they are creating their own internal worlds, their creations are thought of as separate or “make-believe”. It is easier for a child to create a scene in a sand tray than it is to talk about the issue. Subconsciously, the child can make the connections to their own life and begin to play through their concerns.

As the child creates a world that reflects their own internal struggles, the therapist observes the child’s choices of figurines and monitors the child’s engagement, noting any meanings or common themes. The therapist may act as a guide, but rarely interrupts the child’s experience. A safe space is provided, and the child uses the sand tray to subconsciously find the answers that are already within them as they begin to make assumptions and behavioral changes. When a child makes changes in their make-believe world, they are often inclined to make a similar change in their real world.

This is well-suited for young children who often cannot express their feelings in words, but it can also be helpful for teens and adults who have trouble expressing themselves. It is an effective treatment for a variety of issues and is often used for those who have experienced some sort of traumatic event, neglect, or abuse.