Play Specialists

Need some extra special care?

The discovery of three brain tumours meant Gemma had to cope with traumatic treatment. Her mum Christine explains how CLIC Sargent Play Specialist, Rhonda, helped her.

"The planning for Gem’s treatment was very distressing to her. A plastic mask needed to be made for the front and back of her head and when the treatment started both parts of the mask, with Gem inside, was screwed to the table to keep her in the exact position.

My lifesaver at the hospital was Rhonda, the CLIC Sargent Play Specialist. She explained everything in a way Gem understood. She helped Gem make a toy mask so that she knew what to expect.

We also spent a lot of time playing in the playroom so that Gem’s mind could be taken off her cancer. The last few years have been terrible, but I honestly believe that they would have been a lot worse had it not been for Rhonda. She has a very special job that I wish more people were aware of."

More than play

CLIC Sargent Play Specialists are found on paediatric oncology wards. Working at bedsides or in playrooms, they create a sense of ‘normality’ on the ward through play and activities.

Another vital role is to use play to help children prepare for, and cope with, treatment. For example, radiotherapy is painless and lasts just a few minutes each time. Yet the equipment is imposing and children must lie still, making it a scary prospect. Play specialist’s help children to feel more in control of what is happening, by engaging them in role play for example or by ‘telling the story’ through teddies or puppets.

It may be that children can follow a more intensive treatment as a result, which can improve their response to treatment.

Where can families find CLIC Sargent Play Specialists?

They are found on paediatric oncology wards throughout the country.

What’s their role day-to-day?

CLIC Sargent Play Specialists choose activities carefully so that children of all ages and abilities can take part and feel a sense of achievement and belonging.

Our specialists also help prepare children for what treatment is and what it involves. For instance, group activities involve children dressing up as nurses and doctors, so they can role play and learn that everyone’s going through the same experience.

Working alone with a child, specialists use models, teddies and photos to explain what will happen to their body during treatment.

Specialists use play to distract children during simple procedures too. A light and sound book, finger puppets and other colourful toys can engage a child’s attention and make procedures like blood tests easier.

Why are Play Specialists so important?

Their work helps children to socialise and take part in normal play and learning activities, even though they are in hospital. By teaching children more about their illness and what to expect, children are able to cope and manage their fears and anxieties.

Does this help cost families anything?

No. Play specialists are funded by CLIC Sargent. Their day to day work is part of our mission to care for and support each family, every step of the way.