Differentiate between developmentally appropriate grief and “complicated grief” symptoms using the lens of play therapy assessment across three distinct stages (preschool, school-age, and adolescent).

Apply the “Continuing Bonds” theoretical model to play therapy practice by facilitating at least one symbolic intervention designed to integrate the deceased into the child’s current life.

Demonstrate the use of play therapy externalization techniques (such as sand tray or puppet play) to help grieving children regulate and communicate intense themes of anger and guilt.

Identify five specific categories of toys and miniatures (aggressive, nurturing, expressive, etc.) required to curate a “grief-ready” play therapy room that supports the symbolic communication of loss.

Formulate developmentally honest, clinically sound responses to “tough questions” asked by grieving children, utilizing play therapy parent consultation skills to coach caregivers on maintaining a supportive “holding environment” at home.

Evaluate the therapist’s own internal “Holding Environment” and professional presence as a play therapy practitioner to prevent vicarious traumatization when witnessing intense themes of childhood loss within the therapeutic relationship.