Which skill is NOT a basic play therapy skill?

• A. Limiting
• B. Confronting
• C. Tracking
• D. Restating content

Answer: (B)

Confronting is not a basic play therapy skill because play therapy aims to build trust and allow the child to express themselves freely. A therapist using foundational skills stays attuned to the child’s play, reflects back what the child says and feels, and maintains safe boundaries, rather than challenging or accusing the child. Tracking involves closely following the child’s play and themes; restating content paraphrases the child’s words to show understanding; limiting sets gentle, relevant boundaries to keep the session safe and structured. Confrontation, in contrast, tends to interrupt the child’s process and can create defensiveness, making it harder for the child to open up. So the skill that isn’t a basic play therapy skill is confronting.