Therapy through play

Paediatric patients aged between seven and 12 can take part in the Bubble Group, which encourages them to explore their thoughts and emotions about their cancer journey in a creative and therapeutic way.

The course includes arts and crafts that allow young patients to express themselves. For example, they can use the ‘anger wall’ by throwing wet tissue at a wall to relieve stress,

use sensory bottles for relaxation exercises, and create a ‘bag of worries’ to help them to process emotions.

They can also learn skills such as mindfulness and deep breathing, and socialise with other children who are going through similar experiences.

The course was created by the Paediatric and Teenage Psychological Support Service – which is funded by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity – as part of the NHS’s Eat Drink Move initiative, which aims to encourage patients to adopt healthier lifestyles in hospital.