My name is Caroline Futter and I am the Lead Play Specialist at Kingston Hospital.

We are so grateful to all who continue to recognise the importance of play in helping children cope when spending time in hospital. At this time of year, as we approach Christmas, we are always overwhelmed by the generosity of those across our community who provide gifts for the children we look after.

We are also very appreciative of Kingston Hospital Charity’s supporters who have enabled interactive projectors to be purchased on Sunshine Ward and the Andrew Winrow Oncology Unit, as well as in the play areas in the Royal Eye Unit, the dental unit and in the children’s emergency department. These entertainment systems provide over 300 games to choose from, so we are never short of something fun that appeals to each individual child. They are great for play and distraction, as well as aiding recovery by stimulating physical movement. In short, these projectors have been a fantastic addition to the range of entertainment and play activities we are able to offer the children under our care.

There are several reasons why play is so crucial in helping children cope with their hospital experience, as follows:

• Spending time in hospital can be a stressful experience for children. The unfamiliar environment, medical procedures, and separation from home and family can lead to anxiety, fear, and sadness. Play provides an emotional outlet, helping children process their feelings in a more relaxed and natural way. Engaging in fun, imaginative activities can reduce stress, alleviate fear, and foster a sense of normality. Play can be a bridge to their everyday lives, offering comfort and stability during challenging times.
• Children often undergo medical treatments that can be uncomfortable or painful. Play offers a welcome distraction, helping to take their focus off their symptoms or procedure.
• Children in the hospital may feel isolated from their friends, siblings, and peers. Play provides opportunities for children to interact, make new friends, and strengthen their social skills, which can be particularly important in reducing feelings of loneliness.
• Play also allows children to take part in activities where they can exercise control, make decisions and express themselves. Being able to choose makes them feel more empowered while in hospital.
• Play also encourages mobility and physical activity which can be important for a child’s recovery, by improving coordination, strength and motor skills. It can also allow children to use their imagination, problem-solving skills and creativity supporting their cognitive development, despite being away from school.

Our thanks again to all who continue to support us as play provides numerous physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits that can significantly improve the wellbeing of the children we look after during what can be a challenging and often stressful time.