Sandstory Skills Reflection by Suzie Niven
At first, I approached the training of sand story skills with a degree of scepticism. The idea of storytelling through sand play, or simply stating what is seen, felt overly simplistic. We have a Play therapist at my school and like Sand Story Skills I wondered how such exercises could hold any real value in a structured learning environment, or how they could support emotional or cognitive development in meaningful ways. However, as I progressed through the sessions and began to engage more openly with the process, my perspective began to shift in unexpected and transformative ways.
The sand story work—placing figures, objects, and symbols in a tray of sand to form narratives—initially felt awkward. I wasn’t sure what I was meant to express or achieve. But gradually, I found myself making connections between the objects I chose and emotions I hadn’t fully acknowledged. There was something deeply reflective and non-judgmental about the sand medium; it gave space for stories to emerge without pressure, without needing to be “correct.” The process gently unlocked thoughts and feelings that were otherwise hard to articulate. What had seemed simplistic now revealed itself to be quietly profound.
Engaging in the say as you see exercises added another layer to this experience. At face value, simply describing an image or scene without interpretation felt simplistic. But, I began to realise the power of observation. By focusing on describing what is actually there—rather than what I assume or feel about it—I was developing a more grounded, mindful awareness. It reminded me how often we jump to conclusions or add meaning that isn’t present. “Saying what I see” taught me to slow down, notice details, and stay present. This had surprising emotional effects too—it felt calming, clarifying, and even healing at times.
Running my fingers through the grains instantly transported me back to childhood—days spent shaping sandcastles, buried treasures, endless imagination. This isn’t just nostalgia; the sensory experience grounds us deeply in the present moment. As one specialist notes, the sand’s tactile quality “can be particularly beneficial for neurodivergent clients” by calming and focusing the nervous system.
What I found most uplifting was the growing sense of trust—in the process, in the materials, and in myself. These exercises created a gentle but powerful space for insight. They encouraged me to reconnect with the quieter, more intuitive parts of my thinking. I left the experience feeling lighter, more centred, and more open to different modes of communication—not just for myself, but also in how I listen to others.
In conclusion, what initially seemed too simple to be meaningful turned out to be a rich and grounding experience. The combination of imaginative storytelling through sand and mindful observation through “say as you see” has given me tools for self-reflection, emotional exploration, and deeper connection. I’m genuinely grateful for the journey.