Play Supports Children’s Hospitals in Meeting Patient Needs, But More Help is Needed
August 12, 2024 | This year, 20 children’s hospitals are expanding their therapeutic play programs to better support their patients after receiving funding from The Toy Foundation’s (TTF) Children’s Hospital Play Grants program. Each hospital provided a mid-year report in which a consistent theme stood out: Play is critical to support their patients properly and the grant received provides much-needed funds; however, additional support is needed to make play accessible to more patients in every hospital area.
The industry’s continued support is crucial to helping TTF deliver more play into these children’s lives and with “Party with a Purpose,” taking place September 9 at TAO Los Angeles, the industry can come together to network, enjoy entertainment, and raise vital funds for this important cause. Tickets for the event are now on sale; all proceeds will directly support TTF’s work and set the path for the number of children’s hospitals and pediatric patients TTF can support in 2025.
TTF supports children’s hospitals that serve economically disadvantaged communities, funding play projects in the area of the hospital where it is most needed. From sensory tables to teen-based activity rooms, and therapeutic workbooks, the programs are designed for pediatric patients of all ages and abilities to improve their healthcare outcomes.
Highlighted quotes from the hospitals' mid-year reports underscore the critical importance of play, including:
“The sensory toys are amazing. This was our first visit to the emergency room where they took the time, using play, to understand my child and help with his needs.”
– Parent of child at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach
“Since starting the NICU play therapy sessions, we have witnessed INCREDIBLE progress in Baby A’s development and body language.”
– Mother of NICU patient at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
“Having fun and engaging toys available is essential to learning for children with autism, and gives their parents hope as they see their child’s growth.”
– Dr. McBride of Children’s Health Foundation
“One of our teenagers was trying to identify coping skills and the therapeutic workbook we created with our grant provided her with activities to understand her emotions better and was a catalyst for deeper conversations about her mental health and ways we can help her.”
– Dr. April Toure of Maimonides Health Center
In the program’s first four years, TTF has distributed $1.2 million to children’s hospitals, bringing the benefits of play to 500,000 children and families. Without funding from TTF, this impact may not have been possible as hospitals rely on external funding or donations to provide play programs to their patients.
In addition to supporting a great cause, “Party with a Purpose” will feature an exclusive performance from rock band Blues Traveler; networking opportunities with the industry’s top movers and shakers; an auction of unique experiences and items; delicious food and drink; and more.
Party with a Purpose tickets are available for purchase here. The event will take place during The Toy Association’s LA Fall Preview market week.
To learn more about The Toy Foundation and get involved, visit ToyFoundation.org or contact TTF staff.