Playful Parts Work: An Introductory Guide to Integrating Play Therapy with Internal Family Systems (IFS)

In IFS, we talk a lot about parts—the protectors, the exiles—and, of course, the Self. But what about the parts that love to giggle, explore, and create? These playful parts are often the key to unlocking healing, especially in kids with a history of trauma.

In Playful Parts Work, you will find an innovative therapy framework that blends the non—pathologizing stance of IFS with the therapeutic power of play. Developed by Registered Play Therapist Carmen Jimenez—Pride, the playful parts model provides a means through which a child’s internal parts can emerge and express themselves through the natural language of play.

Inside, you will find a variety of play—based strategies, scripts, vignettes, and activities that will allow you to:

• Use toys, sandtray, expressive arts, LEGO®, and more to help clients externalize, name, and befriend their inner parts
• Teach IFS concepts in a creative and developmentally appropriate way
• Help clients give “voice” to their thoughts, feelings, and experiences
• Embrace your own playful parts so you can show up with presence, patience, compassion, and curiosity

Playful parts work allows kids to resolve inner conflict and trauma at their own pace—just sprinkle some IFS magic into your playroom and trust your inner therapist to guide the way.