Medical Play
Playtime can be a tool for communication and learning.
During a hospital stay, children may need help to understand why they are separated from their families. Medical procedures that are designed to help them can seem scary. Often children feel as if they have done something wrong. Learning about procedures and discussing them in a safe environment can make healthcare less frightening.
Child life specialists introduce children to medical play to help them understand procedures and why they need them. Our specialists may use dolls or medical equipment during play to help younger patients become familiar with the hospital environment. Medical play can allow children to gain a sense of control over their medical experience. Medical play also can help clear up misconceptions and relieve anxiety for the child.
