Medical Play and Education
Katie Taylor, CCLS, Child Life on Call
Some days our job can feel like we are running a million miles in an eight-hour shift, so having a stash of medical play and education materials ready to go is a non-negotiable. When we are running from a procedure to the playroom and everywhere in between, it’s a good idea to stock your storage closet with items and activities that will promote understanding.
These are my Top 5 must have items for Medical Play!
Ease your little patients' fears and let them become the doctor, nurse, receptionist, or patient! This multi-sided activity center features a waiting area, exam room, sink and reception area. Sign in and check out patients with a credit card reader and card, wash up in the sink, and display X-rays, monitor blood pressure, tip the scale, measure height, and read the eye chart. The waiting area features a reversible diploma/window card for an ultimate come-to-life feel.
There is a reason that puppets have withstood the test of time. They work! Kids love them and can feel comfortable discussing difficult conversations.
While you are working with your patient and puppet, make sure you have a non-threatening “play” based medical kid close by. This one is perfect and features a mask and all necessary medical equipment for a check-up.
Human Body Facts or Fibs Book
Turn this FACT or Fib book into a game that you play with your adolescent patients. For every “fact” you guess correctly, you earn a point! Get the whole family involved and see who gets the most points!
Parts of the Body Stickers
These are great because you can literally put them on your body, quiz your doctor (ha!), or put them on a cut out body sheet.
What else would you include from SmileMakers for your Medical Play sessions?
