27/09/2026
The Magic of Bubbles in Play Therapy
Why are bubbles a staple in my play therapy room?
To a child, it looks like pure fun. But to a play therapist, a simple bottle of bubbles is a powerhouse tool for emotional regulation, trauma recovery, and mindfulness.
When children are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or angry, their bodies automatically shift into a "fight, flight, or freeze" response. Telling them to "just calm down" rarely works because their brains are offline. Instead, we use play to meet them exactly where they are.
More than just fun:
It looks like simple fun, but bubbles are an incredible tool for emotional regulation. When a child blows a bubble, they have to slow down their breath. This deep, controlled exhalation sends a signal to their nervous system that they are safe. It shifts them out of 'fight or flight' and into a state of calm.
Here is what is actually happening when a child plays with bubbles in therapy:
- Deep Breathing & Regulation: You can’t blow a great bubble with short, anxious breaths. It requires a long, slow, controlled exhalation. This deep breathing automatically activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering their heart rate and signalling to their brain that they are safe.
- Mindfulness & Grounding: For a child experiencing big emotions, watching a bubble float creates a natural, visual anchor. Tracking it helps bring them back into the present moment and grounds them in their physical surroundings.
- Exploring Control & Boundaries: Some children need to pop every bubble fiercely, while others want to catch them gently or watch them drift away. This allows them to safely explore themes of control, frustration, and release in a space that feels completely safe
