Projecting Comfort: Innovative Play Therapy in the PICU

Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity, with the generous support of Rays of Sunshine, is delighted to announce the donation of state-of-the-art projector equipment to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children.

This innovative technology includes Nebula capsule projectors and the cutting-edge OmiVista interactive projector, which are both helping to enhance the hospital experience for critically ill children and their families.

The mini capsule projectors are changing the way children in the PICU can access entertainment and engage with their environment. These compact devices, ensure that families can enjoy crystal-clear visuals whether they’re watching their favourite films or engaging in sensory experiences. What makes these projectors particularly special is their portability and versatility, they can project on any surface, be it the ceiling, walls, or the table over a child’s bed. This is crucial for children who may be bed-bound or unable to sit up, allowing them to watch familiar videos or messages from family and friends, no matter their position.

In addition to the Nebula capsule projectors, the PICU has also received an OmiVista interactive projector. This system responds to gestures and movements, creating dynamic and interactive images on any surface. The OmiVista comes with an activity bag, filled with items like balls, sticks and bean bags, enabling children to engage in games such as popping bubbles, stepping through water, creating fireworks, and catching raindrops.

Not only does the OmiVista encourage physical movement and stretching, which is important for physiotherapy, but it also stimulates the brain and provides a much-needed distraction in what can be a challenging environment.

"The OmiVista projector allows us to offer a full range of activities that are not only fun but also so beneficial for the physical and mental development of our young patients."

Emma McWilliams, Play Team Member

One child who has benefitted from this technology is 7-year-old Adeline, who spent time in the PICU following surgery. Adeline wasn't yet able to leave her bed but could play games projected onto the floor.

"It's so amazing. I loved it. I'm so happy I can play here now."

Her mum noted,

"I can see how the equipment will help with physiotherapy for children on the ward, as I saw how motivated it made Adeline to get moving."

The introduction of these projectors, along with the full-time play team, is helping to mitigate the impact of hospitalisation on young patients. Play therapy helps to reduce anxiety and promotes mental and physical development, even in the most challenging circumstances.

For some children, a stay in the PICU may last only a few hours, but the new environment can be frightening. For others, long stays can hinder physical and mental development. The combination of the Nebula capsule projectors and the OmiVista system offers these children a way to stay engaged, motivated, and connected to friends and family.

"The projectors have been a game changer in the unit, getting the children moving and thinking through the endless activities available and promoting development in a safe way."

Emma McWilliams, Play Team Member

Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity is proud to have facilitated the donation of this projector equipment, and we are very grateful to Rays of Sunshine for funding the project and making it possible.

Dan Assor, CEO at Rays of Sunshine, said,

 "We are delighted the young patients of The Royal Hospital for Children Glasgow are now able to take full advantage of the innovative sensory equipment. This grant wouldn't have been possible without the Lockton Charitable Association. With their help, countless children in hospital will now be able to find comfort through sensory play, brightening their lives when they need it most."