Play

Play can create precious moments of joy, even during the hard times

Play is an essential part of childhood and this is no different for babies, children and young people living with life-limiting conditions. Play is a universal language that helps children connect, communicate and express themselves in ways that feel natural and comfortable. It can bring moments of joy, create precious memories, provide distraction from pain or discomfort, and offer a sense of familiarity, choice and control at a time when there is so much overwhelm, uncertainty, and fear in their lives.

At Children's Hospice Southwest, we recognise that every child and young person plays differently. Through child-led play, we work creatively to provide opportunities that are accessible, inclusive and enjoyable. We take time to get to know each child and young person, discovering their interests and understanding how they like to play. Sometimes this begins simply by sharing space and precious time, being present, responding to individual cues and building trusting relationships that enable every child and young person to engage in ways that reflect who they are and what matters to them.

Play takes many different forms. For some, it may involve sensory experiences, favourite toys or imaginative play. For others, it may be gaming, creative activities, music or spending time with friends. Whatever their age, interests or abilities, we aim to create opportunities for play that encourage communication, connection, self-expression and enjoyment.

Our hospices provide the time, space and support for play to flourish. Through shared experiences, children and young people can relax, build confidence, make choices and create meaningful connections with family members, friends and the people who care for them. Play also helps create precious moments of joy and memories that can be treasured by the whole family.

The importance of messy play

Messy play is a key feature at the hospice as it provides an opportunity to try out different artistic activities and offers alternative ways to facilitate children, young people and their families to enjoy quality time together.

Our art and craft rooms are a vital space for all our children, particularly the younger children and siblings. It is a place of great creativity which can accommodate sand play, water and all the messy activities.

• Messy play helps to break down barriers and is beneficial for children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their siblings. Sometimes the children have so much to say but cannot find the words to express how they feel, that's when messy play works best.
• Every picture tells a story, and messy play has helped so many tell theirs, alongside allowing them to have a great deal of fun.
• The art on the walls will change every time you look! The children choose themes for the room and activities are then centred on the wall theme.
• Parents also enjoy the chance to engage in activities with their children as they rarely have time to do so at home. This therefore provides an opportunity for families to relax and have a break.
• We also ensure messy play can be taken into the children’s bedrooms if they are unable to leave their room.

Bubbles spread joy

Sally, CHSW Sibling Worker, explains the joy of play through bubble-craft:

"Playing with bubbles is so inclusive, all ages and all abilities can participate. It’s a magical experience as no two bubbles are the same, they are like floating orbs of rainbows. To hear the ‘Wow’ when a massive bubble is produced the squeals of delight as the bubbles leave the wand is lovely, so heartwarming and satisfying. 

Learning to blow a bubble takes practice and is a great way to learn controlled breathing. Wands and bubble mixture are put out for all to try. When the children (and adults) are offered to be put in a bubble, the reply is normally 'YES!'. 

Different styles of bubble making are offered for indoor and outdoor play and for all abilities, for example we play by blowing gentle bubbles for children that are laying down to that they can watch and wonder as they move. Its beautiful."