Play specialist

Play specialists bring joy and happiness to children who might be in hospital for a long time. 

They use play as a therapeutic tool to help children understand their illness and treatment. They lead play activities with children and young people who are in hospital or attending a hospital or clinic.

Depending on their role and level of responsibility, they would

• organise daily play and art activities in the playroom or at the bedside
• use play to maintain a child’s level of development during illness
• help children deal with their anxieties and feelings
• use play to prepare children for hospital procedures
• observe children while playing to help healthcare staff monitor their progress
• encourage peer group friendships
• organise parties and special events