Shifting Sands: Sandtray Therapy Group

Elementary School Program

Shifting Sands is a therapeutic group designed for children in grades K-2 and 3-5, offering a safe and creative space to explore emotions and build social connections. Using non-directive sandtray therapy, children are encouraged to express themselves through play and storytelling, fostering self-awareness, problem-solving, and emotional growth.

This group is ideal for children who could benefit from increased self-esteem, positive behavioral changes, an opportunity to express their feelings in a supportive environment, and time to connect with peers in a meaningful way. Each session provides a calm, engaging atmosphere where participants are free to create, reflect, and grow at their own pace.

Let your child experience the transformative power of play through Shifting Sands, where every grain of sand helps build confidence, resilience, and connection.

Middle School Program

Shifting Sands is a supportive therapeutic group for middle school students seeking a safe space to explore their emotions, build self-awareness, and strengthen social skills. Using directive sandtray therapy interventions, participants engage in guided activities that encourage self-expression, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

This group is a good fit fit for those navigating challenges such as low self-esteem, difficulty expressing emotions, increased anxiety, increased anger, or the need to improve peer interactions. Each session fosters creativity and reflection, helping participants develop resilience, confidence, and a greater sense of connection with themselves and others.

Empower your middle schooler to navigate life’s shifting sands with confidence, self-awareness, and support.

Sessions will consist of the following:

  • Brief check-in
  • Warm-up activity (stretching, mindfulness, breathing technique, etc.)
  • Discussion of prompt
  • Time for participants to make their sand trays
  • Group discussion about their trays
  • Journaling/drawing to continue processing of tray
  • Quick relaxation activity
  • Take-home assignment related to the current group session prompt
These groups meet at the Maine Township Town Hall. The fee for the entire ten-week group is only $20 for residents and $60 for non-residents (space permitting) and includes all materials. Advance registration is required.

upcoming dates and online Registration

For more information, please contact Summer Zumbrock at szumbrock@mainetown.com or 224-257-4863.