Child’s Play: Bringing Gaming Technology to Hospitals
Child’s Play, the oldest gaming charity established in 2003, has been at the forefront of providing gaming technology to nearly 200 children’s hospitals worldwide. Their mission is not only to ensure that hospitals have access to the latest gaming technology but also to educate hospital staff on effectively utilizing games as part of the therapy and healing process for their young patients.
VR Experiences for Healing
Child’s Play has funded the development of three VR experiences at the Children’s Hospital in Colorado, showcasing the positive impact gaming can have in a therapeutic setting. By introducing new tools like VR, gaming is proving to be a powerful tool for good, aiding in the healing process of children undergoing treatment.
Gaming and Technology Specialists
Since 2017, Child’s Play has been funding positions for Gaming and Technology Specialists within hospitals, whose primary role is to engage with pediatric patients through gaming and explore innovative ways to incorporate various technologies like VR, AR, and 3D printers into the healing process.
Therapeutic Video Game Guide
To further support hospital staff in utilizing games effectively, Child’s Play has developed a therapeutic video game guide. This guide assists staff in identifying games that can address pain, boredom, and provide appropriate gaming experiences based on the context, ensuring that gaming is utilized intentionally as part of the healing process.
How Gamers Can Support Child’s Play
For gamers looking to support Child’s Play, visiting their website at childsplaycharity.org provides an avenue to donate and participate in the Play Together campaign, where streaming and donations help fund resources like Xboxes, iPads, and games for hospitals. By joining the cause, gamers can make a significant impact in providing joy and normalcy to children undergoing treatment.
In conclusion, Child’s Play’s efforts in bringing gaming technology to hospitals are truly commendable. By leveraging the power of gaming for good, they are not only enriching the lives of young patients but also transforming the way healthcare professionals approach therapy and healing. Let’s continue to support their mission and bring smiles to the faces of children in need. Together, we can make a difference! ๐ฎโจ