Social development is just as important as learning letters and numbers—especially in early childhood. For many young children in Phnom Penh, challenges with communication, sharing, or group play can create barriers to learning and connection. That’s where speech therapy and occupational therapy come in, using structured play to teach essential social-emotional skills like turn-taking, joint attention, and cooperative play.
Why Social Play Matters
From a young age, play teaches children how to interact with others, express needs, and understand emotions. For children with autism, language delays, or sensory processing difficulties, these skills may not develop naturally. That’s why therapy-based play is so powerful—it meets children at their level and helps them grow in a safe, supportive way.
At Speech Therapy Phnom Penh, we use child-led play and language modeling to support:
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Sharing and taking turns
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Asking for help or more
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Waiting and transitioning between activities
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Understanding social cues like eye contact or facial expressions
These foundational skills prepare children for group settings like preschool or family gatherings.
Role of Occupational Therapy in Social-Emotional Growth
Occupational therapists focus on the “why” behind behaviors—such as sensory sensitivities or attention difficulties—that can affect social participation. At Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh, therapists design sensory-friendly and engaging activities that teach:
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Self-regulation during play
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Coping with frustration or losing a game
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Participating in parallel and cooperative play
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Building emotional vocabulary and expression
Turn-taking with toys, passing objects, and following simple rules during games all help children learn how to be part of a group and manage their emotions.
Supporting Social Skills at Home
Parents can encourage these skills through everyday interactions:
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Narrate your own turn-taking: “Now it’s your turn, then it will be mine!”
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Use toys that require cooperation, like balls or shared pretend play items
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Praise small successes: “I love how you waited for the toy!”
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Set short, clear expectations: “Let’s take turns two times each.”
If your child often plays alone, struggles with waiting, or becomes easily overwhelmed in group play, social-based therapy may offer the support they need.
Growing Together with Phnom Penh Therapy Services
At Speech Therapy Phnom Penh and Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh, we believe every child can build the social skills needed to connect, share, and thrive. Our programs are designed with fun, purpose, and compassion—right here in the heart of Phnom Penh.
Join our community for tips and support:
Speech Therapy Phnom Penh Facebook Page
Speech Therapy Cambodia Facebook Group
Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh Facebook Page
Occupational Therapy Cambodia Facebook Group
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