Researching the Power of Play in Children's Hospitals
Across 2022 and 2023, we conducted ethnographic research with Starlight Children’s Foundation to understand the power of play for children who are unwell. This involved working with children and families in hospitals, hospital play staff, and children and families who benefit from Starlight’s events.
Approach
We visited children’s hospitals to shadow the hospital play teams as they supported children, teenagers and their families. This included work to distract children during medical procedures, support their learning around what was happening for them and what will happen next, and combat boredom during waits and long stays.
We also interviewed children and parents who have attended Starlight’s events to understand what is already good, and what could be better. We also conducted a collaborative workshop to share ideas for future ways these might be organised.
Finally, we checked all our findings with play staff in medical settings across the UK, and children and families receiving Starlight services across the UK.
Outcome
We learnt a huge amount from everyone involved in this collaborative work. The results and recommendations are now being used by Starlight to make sure their services best meet the needs of sick children, young people, and the staff and families that support them.