Our Play and Thrive Project took off!
The pilot project, which involved the creation of a fully staffed and furnished hospital playroom at Gbagada General Hospital, was funded by Bama Mayonnaise. Using a human-centred design approach, we collaborated with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and representatives from government agencies such as LASUTH, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the Lagos State Health Service Commission; UNICEF, Nobelova, the Association for Play Therapy Nigeria (APTN), the Children’s Developmental Centre (CDC), parents and children, including children with disabilities, to ensure inclusion.
The playroom provides a safe space to provide mental and psychosocial support for children who may be experiencing challenges due to hospitalization, chronic health issues, or developmental delays. Using play as a tool and language understood by all children, the playroom provides a safe space for expression, learning, and healing.
