Medical play

Medical play is exactly what it sounds like: play with real medical equipment and often dolls, which allows children a non-threatening way to learn about and familiarize themselves with medical procedures, equipment, hospitals, doctors and nurses.

Through medical play, children can give voice to fears and misconceptions about their hospital experience that they may be unable to express verbally. It is an invaluable tool to help kids of all ages, but should always be done with adult supervision and feedback.

To request support from a Child Life specialist during your child's next hospital visit or procedure, call 773.880.4000 and ask for extension 2060.

Infants

• Develop a sensory understanding by looking, touching and mouthing the equipment

 Toddlers

• Continue to handle, explore and play with equipment.
• Will use medical tools in normal toddler play.
• Might begin to get nervous when medical equipment is introduced.
• Are able to act out experiences by playing doctor.
• Preschoolers
• Might engage in fantasy play with medical themes and actual equipment.

• May play aggressively as a way of letting out negative feelings.

School-age children

•  Explore medical equipment to better understand procedures and environment.
• May listen to stories, which can be used to describe medical experiences.

• Can create medical art as a way to express themselves and gain a sense of control. For example, using syringes for painting, tongue depressors for picture frames.