Why medical play?

Play is the language of children, and toys are the words. Through play, children process the world around them, rehearse real-life experiences, and build the skills they need to cope. Medical play - using real or pretend medical items in fun, non-threatening ways - is backed by research as a powerful way to prepare and support children for healthcare experiences.

Studies have shown that medical play can:

• Reduce anxiety and stress by making medical tools and procedures more familiar before they happen.

• Improve cooperation during actual treatments, as children know what to expect and feel more in control.

• Support emotional expression by giving children a safe outlet to explore fears and ask questions.

• Increase understanding of what’s happening to their bodies in age-appropriate, hands-on ways.

Healthcare settings can be overwhelming, especially for children who have little control over what’s happening. By introducing items like syringes (for painting or water play), stethoscopes (for “listening to teddies heart”), or MRIs (for “going for a ride in the donut”), children can explore and learn in a calm, safe environment. Through play, children can also process past procedures.

The more familiar and positive these experiences become in play, the better prepared children are to face real medical moments with confidence.