The Art of Distraction Play.

Distraction in all it's different forms is an art form, but also an effective tool and skill in use by many of my Play Specialist colleagues, and indeed many HCP's.

When seeking a "definition" I have found  many focus on one point- and there is a huge difference.

"a thing that prevents someone from concentrating on something else."

Is one such explanation.

This in it's simplicity sounds a good solid definition. However when using Distraction Therapy with C&YP it takes on a whole new meaning and complexity.

I have my own way of describing it- it works for me- but won't for everyone.

A method, a tool for C&YP, an enabler, a "take some control" button.

Something that you keep in your pocket, and can pull out at very short notice!

For HCP's it's another element to add to the "Rucksack of Skills" we already carry in our working lives.

In our lives both at work and at play many of us become distracted- a piece of music, a book, a telephone conversation, social media ( my ever present distraction!) and  even cake! All these things can become very pleasant distractions from those tasks we are not too joyous to complete, then there are those distractions that become unpleasant- and difficult.

When working alongside C&YP it's important as a Specialsied Play Practitioner to acknowledge the levels of anxiety and identify triggers that may cause this anxiety to escalate.

It can be isolated.

History plays a large part, the environment , what words are used to describe things, images and time frames, pain and increase of symptoms are just some of the anxiety inducing elements that have been shared with me by C&YP and their families.

I use the art of distraction through out my working day, introductions in the morning, "look at that teddy bear- he is so cuddly- what's his name"

"#hello my name is Sian- but sometimes I am called "Nutnut" or "Nitty Nutty Nora"

"Hi- I get a sense that things are not right, what can you tell me so that I might be able to help and support you"

When supporting  examinations- often I look to the lead doctor to "join me" in my story building- the feedback from families and C&YP is that it shows they are "human beings"

"oh and a bit silly too"

This breakdowns massive fear inducing barriers and changes the images that C&YP build in their imaginations about hospitals and procedures.

 

When we gain consent to carry out invasive procedures on C&YP at the same time we are assessing the need or level of support they will require prior to starting- we also need to be asking them how they would like things to happen.

As HCP's striking up a conversation about their favourite colour, game, music, book is a great start.

Picking out something in the room- making up a story asking them to think of names, characters, what can happen next? Distraction, Pretend Play and Imagination- all have a place.

Acknowledging that right now- it's a bit rubbish, and working alongside those feelings with C&YP.

There are times - in emergencies when procedures need to happen quickly and safely, asking for input from a Health PlaySpecialist or practitioner will support that journey, the use of language, and the level of distraction required.

We are also skilled at supporting our medical and clinical collegeues, so that skills are shared and learning acquired.

 

In an everchanging fast paced approach to Social Media- there is some train of thought that write IPhones and IPads actually distract from the skills needed to carry out distraction.

Following your assessment of the mood, the anxiety level, the approach you will use- and the environment ........ A decision should be made by the HCP's 

My own view -I am the facilitator, the support mechanism for C&YP in times of anxiety, fear and pain- sometimes I am also their voice- and we must listen.

I have many skills- the teams I am part of, have many skills and I also need support to offer these - my complete focus is to minimalise trauma impact- for the child or young person sitting next to me- I use whatever I can that will enhance that experience and lessen the trauma.

IPads, Apps, Red noses, Pom-poms, Stickers, Bubbles, Music and Standing on one leg.

If it helps- then let's use it!

Suggested Apps- recommend by the C&YP! 

#justsayin!

• Minion Rush
• CBeebies Playtime and Story time
• Kids Doodle
• Jelly Splash
• Angry Birds- Starwars
• Peppa Pigs Paint box
• Hairy Phonics
• Four in a line
• Talking Pocoyo.

There are many more.........  please share them
These are all free!

Articles of further reading and exploration.

Interactive verses Passive Distraction for Acute Pain Management in Young Children
The role of selective attention and development 
Karen A. Wohlheiter; PhD; Lynnda M. Dahlquist; PhD | Disclosures

J Pediatr Psychol. 2013;38(2):202-212

Sian Spencer-Little.