International Day of Play (11 June 2025): Marina's Journey in Play Therapy
At Club Rainbow (Singapore), play is more than just fun – it is a powerful tool for growth, expression, and healing. This International Day of Play, we spotlight Marina Lim, a dedicated Play Therapist whose passion for working with children has brought joy and transformation to many young lives.
Marina is a mother of two, with one child on the spectrum. As an educator for over 30 years and a Play Therapist for more than a decade, she has dedicated her life to helping children and families through creative and playful interventions. Her company, Creative Play Therapy / Creative Play Lab, embodies the kampong spirit – where the community comes together to support a child’s growth and well-being.
Marina
Marina’s journey as a Play Therapist was inspired by her own experiences as a parent of a child with special needs. She sought a non-intrusive, engaging, and fun way to support children in expressing themselves, leading her to play therapy – a method that allows children to communicate their needs and emotions freely, even without words.
At Club Rainbow, Marina works closely with children who may struggle to verbalise their feelings. Through play therapy, she provides a safe and empowering space for them to explore their emotions, build confidence, and develop self-awareness. Parents have seen firsthand how their children have grown, gaining a voice and unlocking their potential through these sessions.
One memorable success story involves a teenager, affectionately referred to as Strawberry Shortcake, who faces developmental challenges. Through play therapy, she has become more emotionally regulated, self-aware, and expressive. Her father shared how the sessions have helped her communicate her needs more effectively, allowing her to navigate the world with greater confidence.
Play therapy is a gentle and patient process that takes time to yield results. Some children require longer-term intervention, which can test the patience of caregivers and children alike. However, Marina believes in the power of persistence – over time, every small step forward is a victory.
Play is fundamental to a child’s development, nurturing cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. It fosters problem-solving skills, creativity, language development, and resilience. Marina encourages parents to integrate play into their daily interactions in ways that align with their family’s interests. Whether it's outdoor sports, creative art sessions, or building projects, the key is to make play an enjoyable and natural part of life. These play sessions also help to strengthen the bond between parents and children, creating meaningful learning experiences.
The first-ever International Day of Play, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is a monumental step in recognising the right of every child to play. Supported by global organisations like UNICEF, UNESCO, and the LEGO Foundation, this initiative highlights the importance of play-based learning and its role in shaping resilient, problem-solving future generations.
“The power of play is an essential ingredient for all, regardless of age, to be joyful and connected.”
This International Day of Play, let’s celebrate the magic of play and the difference it makes in children’s lives. Through play, we create a world where every child feels heard, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Make a difference today - support Club Rainbow’s children and families by volunteering with us!
About Club Rainbow (Singapore)
Established in 1992, Club Rainbow (Singapore) is a non-profit organisation and registered charity with the mission to support and empower children with chronic illnesses, many of whom are with special needs and disabilities, and their families to lead a dignified life and become active contributors to society.
Website: https://www.clubrainbow.org/
Contact number: 6377 1789
Email: contact@clubrainbow.org
Instagram/ Facebook/ LinkedIn/ TikTok/ YouTube: @clubrainbowsingapore