This is a wonderful intervention shared by Paris during a video interview with Liana Lowenstein, MSW, RSW, CPT-S. Paris reported this technique was originally created for kids with negative self-talk. It helps children heal by saying something to them that is empowering and positive.
Materials:
A Shield
A Sword
Some balls
When children experience trauma, are perfectionists, and/or experience anxiety among other challenges, they develop negative cognitions. The therapist can help children identify their negative thoughts and find a replacement statement.
Paris reminds us that only saying the opposite words to the negative thought will not be effective. The therapist needs to help children find their strengths and craft a replacement statement.
Here is the video: