Enhancing Children’s Healthcare through Play: A Holistic Approach

By Nicky Everett, Cath Hubbuck, Fraser Brown

Exploring how practitioners make use of play’s developmental benefits and therapeutic healing properties to aid the child’s healthcare journey, “Enhancing Children’s Healthcare through Play: A Holistic Approach” is a reflective book that expands and enhances the knowledge base underlying the practice of play in hospitals. This book is a valuable resource for healthcare play specialists, playworkers, children’s nurses, occupational therapists, and more.

Introduction

The work of health play specialists and child life specialists in hospitals in the UK and around the world requires a deep level of clinical knowledge. It involves skillfully preparing children for procedures and supporting them through their medical journeys. This book delves into the theory that underpins the practice of using play as a therapeutic tool and explores the breadth, depth, and skills of these trained healthcare practitioners.

Play is the foundation of everything for children – their safest, most natural space. From this space, trust, strength, and resilience can grow and be nurtured. The authors emphasize the power of play and its central role in numerous clinical settings. They highlight how it can aid children’s developmental benefits and help them navigate their healthcare experiences.

Review

“Enhancing Children’s Healthcare through Play: A Holistic Approach” draws on the collective work of over 30 play specialists, child life specialists, play service managers, lecturers, and researchers. Combining reflective essays, case study chapters, and the newly emerging use of play in diverse settings, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of play’s therapeutic potential.

The authors provide insights into how play specialists and child life specialists approach their work. They shed light on the deep level of clinical knowledge required to address children’s fears and emotions effectively. The book explores the impact of traumatic experiences on child development and emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for healing.

Readers will find a wealth of knowledge in this book, including practical strategies and techniques used by practitioners in various healthcare settings. The case study chapters provide real-life examples of how play interventions can positively impact children’s well-being and help them navigate challenging medical procedures.

One of the standout features of this book is its international perspective. The authors include case studies and insights from practitioners around the world, offering a broad understanding of play as a therapeutic tool in different cultural contexts. This diversity adds depth to the discussions and allows readers to gain a global perspective on the benefits of play in healthcare settings.

Promoting the Feeling of Ordering

“Enhancing Children’s Healthcare through Play: A Holistic Approach” is a must-read for healthcare professionals working with children in clinical settings. Whether you are a healthcare play specialist, playworker, children’s nurse, or occupational therapist, this book will equip you with a deeper understanding of the power of play in promoting children’s well-being.

Order your copy today and discover the transformative potential of play in enhancing children’s healthcare journeys. By implementing the strategies and insights shared in this book, you can make a significant difference in the lives of the children you serve. Embrace the power of play and join the growing community of practitioners who are prioritizing holistic approaches to healthcare.