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1. Rapport Builder
- Magic is a highly engaging activity that can get the attention of children quickly.
- Magic can help counselors appear more playful and approachable.
- Magic is a very effective distraction from tension/anxiety.
2. Teaching Tool
- Magic can be used metaphorically to teach life skills. For example, magic tricks that "break out" or "escape" can represent overcoming obstacles and achieving goals.
3. Therapeutic Alliance
- When used properly in long term individual counseling, magic can provide a shared activity, common ground, and something for the child to look forward to.
4. Connecting with Resistant Teens
- Magic can be irresistible for even the most resistant teens by challenging their intellect and piquing their curiosity.
5. Strengthening Groups
- magic can be a highly effective tool for breaking "ice" in children's support groups. It can also be used to promote positive group norms and cooperation.
6. Behavior management
- For interested younger children, magic can work well as positive reinforcement. Children can earn magic tricks for good behavior.
7. Diagnostic Aid
- Magic is a useful and common sense tool for detecting depression in children.