Which step could a teacher use to support Sammy, who tends to play violent-themed games after experiencing domestic violence?

• A. Offer some props and suggestions to help move the play to more imaginative and problem-solving themes.
• B. Encourage Sammy to stop playing violent games immediately.
• C. Punish Sammy for the violent play.
• D. Ignore the play and move on with activities.

Answer: (A)

When a child has witnessed domestic violence, play often carries vivid emotions and experiences. Guiding Sammy’s violent-themed play toward imaginative, problem-solving themes gives him a safe outlet to process those feelings rather than stuffing them down or acting out impulsively. Using props and prompts helps reframe the story from danger or aggression into collaboration, planning, or helping others, which builds a sense of control and safety. This approach supports emotional regulation by offering concrete choices, reducing heightened arousal, and modeling nonviolent coping skills. It also creates a moment for the teacher to connect with Sammy, acknowledge his fears, and gently explore what he’s feeling, paving the way for healthier expressions and resilience. In contrast, telling him to stop immediately can shut down his way of processing, punishment can damage trust and worsen distress, and ignoring the play misses a critical opportunity to understand and support his needs.