The importance of Distraction Techniques
Medical treatments and procedures can be especially scary for children, creating feelings of powerlessness, fear and anxiety. Sensory distraction and play can be used to empower children and help them feel comfortable and confident in hospital.
Sensory toys and resources can be used by Hospital Play Specialists and other healthcare professionals to distract patients before treatments and boost their mental and physical wellbeing.
Distraction through sensory play is not a diversion from reality but helps to raise coping skills. It goes hand in hand with preparing children to understand their treatment and health needs. Sensory play between the child, staff and their parents encourages the child to cope with any negative feelings, fear and pain.
Distraction play can also be used to help a child cope with waiting around before their treatment, to lessen the build-up of anxiety as much as is possible, and also after treatment to help a child calm down again and get back to normal activities.
