Why Play-Based Therapy is Key to Child Development in Phnom Penh

In the heart of Phnom Penh, more families are turning to play-based approaches to support their child’s development. Whether it’s building with blocks, engaging in turn-taking games, or using pretend play, these simple activities are powerful tools for growth. Play isn’t just fun—it’s a crucial way for children to develop language, motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and social understanding.

Children naturally learn best when they’re engaged and having fun. Play-based therapy builds on this by structuring play in ways that are developmentally appropriate and therapeutic. It helps young learners build confidence, understand rules, and practice new behaviors in a safe, supportive environment.

Benefits of Play-Based Learning
Children who engage in therapeutic play sessions tend to:

• Improve their fine and gross motor coordination

• Expand vocabulary and sentence-building through conversation

• Strengthen memory, sequencing, and attention

• Develop emotional regulation and social interaction skills

• Practice life skills like asking for help, waiting, and sharing

These sessions are especially effective for children with developmental delays, speech and language challenges, and autism. By using play as the vehicle for therapy, children feel more comfortable and motivated to participate.

Using Play at Home for Skill Building
Parents can enhance their child’s development through everyday play by:

• Following the child’s lead and expanding their ideas

• Introducing simple new words and concepts during play

• Offering choices and encouraging turn-taking

• Celebrating small achievements to build self-esteem

• Maintaining a consistent routine to reduce anxiety

Even 15–20 minutes of focused play a day can create strong learning habits and help children build skills that transfer into the classroom and daily life.

Get Professional Guidance Through OrbRom Center
If your child struggles with communication, focus, or learning new skills, play-based therapy could be the support they need. At OrbRom Center, we specialize in early intervention programs that use play to unlock a child’s full potential. Located in Phnom Penh, our team of therapists offers one-on-one sessions tailored to your child’s developmental level.

Discover how our Special Needs Intensive Intervention program can support your family.