Problem
Play therapy is a counselling method used to connect with children by encouraging expression through creative play in an environment in which the child may feel less inhibited. Play therapists gain valuable insight into a child’s emotional and behavioural wellbeing while in the playroom by observing how the child expresses themselves in the space created within the imagination. However, these insights are limited to sessions in which the play therapist is a direct observer of the child.
The progress made during the play therapy session needs to continue outside of the play room. Play therapists have the knowledge, but lack the tools to securely share pertinent information with parents to understand their child’s development.
Role
UX Researcher and Product Designer
Deliverables
- Research
- Wireframes
- Prototyping
- Branding
- Promotional video
Solution
Working collaboratively with the child, parent, and therapist, the solution combines a single platform and a physical tool to significantly enhance developmental outcomes. The platform equips parents with tailored information about their child’s specific challenges, while the physical tool helps the child regulate their nervous system during moments of dysregulation.
Research
Key Insights:
1. Prolonged exposure to stress and anxiety dysregulates the nervous system.
Enduring high levels of anxiety, dysregulates the nervous system and has serious health related consequences (Innis, 2020). Children who struggle with a dysregulated nervous system should be taught how to regulate and stabilise this over-active state using vagus nerve activating exercises. The vagus nerve is responsible for initiating relaxation after a stress response (Breit et al., 2018).
2. Parents influence the psychological and behavioural development of their children.
Children are more likely to regulate and manage their emotions under pressure when they've formed a secure relationship with their parents (Parent-Child Relationship - Why It's Important, 2018).
3. Parents consulting the internet for parenting advice run the risk of being misinformed.
The internet is an easily accessible information behemoth. Research has indicated that parents use the internet in search for parenting and health related queries (Dworkin et al., 2013).
The problem is that it can be difficult for parents to recognise trustworthy, evidence-based information. The broad range of information does not cater for the each child's unique individual needs.
Conceptual Framework
Wireframes
Wireframes of the app interface that includes 4 key elements:
1. Tracker and description of Play Therapy stages
2. Personalised guide to manage any emotional or behavioural challenges
3. Assessment of child's emotions and behaviours
4. Play Therapy Community where parents can connect with others in their area
User Flow
The Outcome
Earphone concept design
Earphone prototyping with clay
Earphones In-situ
Branding
