Children admitted to Brisbane Waters Private Hospital will now enjoy a fun jungle safari, as part of the hospital’s Caring for Kids program.
The program, which was established three years ago, was recently relaunched with a focus on creating an interactive experience for the children.
Community Relationship Manager, Petrina Waddell, said the program was committed to making an anxious time into a warm and welcoming experience.
“We transformed our hallways into a green foliage jungle where animals roam, and kids get to ride through the jungle in a zebra-striped jeep in the Day Procedure Unit (Theatre) which we call the Lion’s Den,” Waddell said.
“This provides a warm and secure environment where both the child and parent can feel relaxed, reduce their stress and anxiety levels.”
Waddell said the children had their private rooms individually decorated and got the chance to drive the safari jeep themselves.
“The kids are told about the jungle safari before they come to the hospital, so they have something to look forward to,” she said.
“They are given a map, a safari hat, binoculars, a backpack, and then they get in their jeep, and off they go.
“While driving to the theatre, the children mark off animals that they spot along the way.
“It is not just for the kids, it’s for the parents as well, seeing their children laughing and having fun really helps.”
One parent said it was fantastic to see the decorated hospital halls, along with the staff who had dressed up as jungle guides making the whole experience special for their child.
Hayley McMahon