What’s with the Play-Doh and Crayons?!: Chill Zone Guide for Disaster Response Areas

April 23, 2025

Therapeutic play for people who have experienced a traumatic event can promote emotional processing, regulation, and resilience. Research studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of play-based interventions in reducing trauma symptoms, improving coping skills, and enhancing overall functioning in individuals who have experienced a traumatic event. This guide describes how to set up and implement “chill zones” to support the mental well-being of adults, children, and first responders after a disaster.