Child abuse cases and problems created by breakdowns in family relationships have highlighted the need for sound techniques for communicating with children. As a result, there is renewed interest in the therapeutic use of play to help prevent or repair emotional damage in both children and their families.The Handbook of Play Therapy is a comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of play therapy. It provides a practical guide to the basic skills necessary to begin tapping the healing potential of play and gives many examples of good practice.