Samsun launches play-based communication project for child caregivers

The Samsun Family and Social Services Provincial Directorate has launched the ‘Strengthening Relationships with Children Through Play’ project to support children in state care. Under the auspices of the Samsun Governorship, the initiative aims to provide play-based communication and emotional regulation training to 150 caregiving staff members.

Running through the end of October, the program is led by preschool teacher and DIR Floortime training leader Nazmiye Uslucan and psychologist T. Emrah Talay. The training focuses on establishing healthy bonds with children, utilizing play-based communication techniques, and managing crisis situations.

In addition to child-focused skills, the project provides psychological support for caregivers, including stress management, anger control, and emotional regulation. Kemal Gümrükçü, the Samsun Family and Social Services Provincial Director, stated that the goal is to empower the adults who interact with children daily to ensure children feel secure and their emotional needs are recognized.