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Principle 12: Play, recreation and education


Disclaimer: This fact sheet is for educational use only. Please consult your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

Introduction

The following is one of a group of principles which recognise the particular needs of children and young people receiving health and disability support services. The principles describe what should be provided when your child or young person receives those services. They are based on expert opinion and a considerable body of literature in New Zealand and overseas and they have been developed after wide consultation. See all the principles listed in Principles: what health and disability services should provide for your child or young person.
 

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Play, recreation, creative activities and education

Principle: Every child and young person receiving health care or disability support services should have access to, and opportunities to participate in play, recreation, creative activities and education.
 
In health care settings, planned activities such as play, creative activities and recreation, provided by appropriately qualified staff, should be a fundamental part of the care and support of children and young people.
 
Play is vital for children and young people. It is familiar and reassuring and helps them interpret the environment in which they live. Play is a means by which children learn and develop. It may also help them feel less anxious in unfamiliar or potentially stressful situations. It also helps them to express their feelings, understand what is happening and cope with treatment.
 
Play, recreation and creative activities should aim to develop and maintain skills and interests that are meaningful to the child or young person and are within their capabilities. They should reflect ordinary patterns of life and include the involvement of family, or other representatives and community groups where appropriate.
 
In longer-stay settings, access to education, both early childhood education and schooling, is vital to minimise the disruption that can be associated with health care.


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Where to go for more information

On this website
 
Hospital Play Specialists Association
Play specialists may be able to advise you on how to help your child cope with illness, treatment and hospitalisation.
Postal address: P O Box 26637, Epsom, Auckland.
 

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Acknowledgements

 

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Endorsement

This fact sheet was endorsed by PSNZ - 20/10/2010

Copyright

Fact sheets are subject to copyright. In the interests of information sharing they may be copied but acknowledgement must be given to PSNZ and Starship Foundation.
© The Paediatric Society of New Zealand and Starship Foundation 2005 - 2012


The Paediatric Society of New Zealand
http://www.paediatrics.org.nz 		Starship Foundation
http://www.starship.org.nz