Turning waiting time into play time at Perth Children's Hospital

A new initiative at Perth Children's Hospital (PCH) is helping make waiting times more enjoyable for children and families. 

The Play and Wait Activity Trolley brings opportunities to play directly to children in waiting areas across the hospital, helping reduce stress, boredom and anxiety while creating a more positive hospital experience. 

Play is an important part of childhood and supports children's wellbeing, development, and emotional health. Recognising this, the Play and Wait program was developed to help children feel more comfortable and supported during their visit to PCH. 

Supported by Perth Children's Hospital Foundation, the Play and Wait Activity Trolley is stocked with a range of engaging arts, crafts and sensory activities. Children can take part in activities alongside volunteers or enjoy them with their parent or caregiver while waiting for appointments. 

Designed by occupational therapists and the Play, Leisure and Engagement (PLAE) team, the activities are carefully selected to support emotional regulation, helping children feel calmer, more in control and better able to engage with their healthcare experience. 

Importantly, the program was co-designed with consumers and volunteers to ensure the activities are meaningful, accessible and responsive to the needs of children and families. 

More than 50 volunteers are involved in delivering the program, helping bring play directly to children and families throughout the week. Every new volunteer receives training on how to use the trolley, facilitate activities, and engage with children and families to ensure a safe, inclusive and positive experience for all participants. 

Since its introduction in December last year, the Play and Wait Activity Trolley has received positive feedback from families and volunteers alike. 

One parent shared: 

"This was our first time to hospital. My daughter was super nervous and stressed. The activity helped her mind and made it easier to wait. Thank you." 

Another caregiver said: 

"It changes our experience of the hospital. My child is not running around, he can sit and enjoy a task which helps me to relax too." 

Volunteers have also seen the impact firsthand, describing it as a joy to see kids happy and engaged. 

By bringing therapist-designed, interactive play directly to waiting areas, the Play and Wait Activity Trolley provides a creative alternative to screen time while supporting children's wellbeing and participation. 

The Play and Wait Activity Trolley is helping make every hospital visit a little easier by turning waiting time into meaningful play time.