Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

Play Therapy and Counseling for children and families in Davenport, Iowa

Leaving Kids at Home Alone: A Play Therapist’s Guide for Parents

December 8, 2025

Introduction: Leaving your child home alone for the first time can feel like a big step—for both you and your child! As a play therapist, I know this milestone is filled with questions, excitement, and maybe a little anxiety. How do you know when your child is ready? What can you do to make the […]

Healing Through Play: The Benefits of Play Therapy for Kids

October 27, 2025

As parents, we all want the best for our children—emotionally, socially, and academically. But sometimes, children face challenges they can’t express in words. This is where play therapy comes in, offering a powerful way for kids to process emotions, build resilience, and grow.

Playful Connections: How Playtime Builds Stronger Bonds With Your Child

October 20, 2025

As parents, we all want to foster deep, meaningful connections with our children. One of the most effective—and enjoyable—ways to do this is through playtime. Play is more than just fun; it’s a powerful tool for building trust, communication, and emotional security.

How Play Therapy Can Help with ADHD and Other Behavioral Challenges

September 8, 2025

Parenting a child with ADHD or other behavioral challenges can be both rewarding and overwhelming. As a professional play therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how play therapy can be a transformative tool for children and their families. In this blog, we’ll explore how play therapy works and why it’s such a powerful approach for addressing behavioral challenges.

Using Play to Address Tantrums and Meltdowns

August 4, 2025

Tantrums and meltdowns are a natural part of childhood, but they can be overwhelming for both children and parents. As a play therapist, I often see the transformative power of play in helping children navigate these intense emotions. In this blog, we’ll explore how play can be a valuable tool for addressing tantrums and meltdowns, offering practical strategies for parents to implement at home.

How Play Can Help Your Child Make Friends and Build Confidence

July 21, 2025

Friendship and confidence are two pillars of a happy childhood. As parents, we often wonder how we can help our children develop these essential skills. One of the most effective ways is through play. Play is not just fun; it’s a powerful tool for learning and growth. In this blog, we’ll explore how play can help your child make friends and build confidence.

Creative Ways to Encourage Positive Behavior Through Play

July 14, 2025

Play is a universal language for children, and it can be a powerful tool for encouraging positive behavior. As parents, we often focus on correcting misbehavior, but what if we could use play to guide our children toward better choices? In this blog, we’ll explore creative ways to foster positive behavior through play.

From Piggy Banks to Paychecks: Teaching Kids the Value of Money

June 4, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.

Fostering Independence in Your Child: A Guide for Parents

May 26, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.

How Parents Can Support Children Exposed to Gun Violence

May 19, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.