Volcanic Ventures: Salem's Fusion of Science and Art with Play Team
At Great Ormond Street International and Private Care, we prioritise education and engagement, particularly for long-stay patients like Salem. Salem is an 8-year-old with a vibrant personality, who was diagnosed with a rare condition called ROHHAD syndrome (Rapid Onset Obesity, Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation), and became the first child in the UK to undergo Phrenic Neurosurgery Procedure (PNP) surgery. You can read more about Salem's case study here:
Throughout his time with us, Salem was entertained and engaged through various activities tailored to his interests and abilities. Our committed Health Play Specialist, Kimberley, provided ongoing support and guidance to Salem during his stay.
This volcano project helped Salem during his admission by providing a distraction and creating a positive hospital environment for him. Hospitals can be daunting places for children, especially when far from home.
Kimberley, Health Play Specialist
This project allowed me to keep Salem motivated by providing fun, enjoyable play sessions tailored to his age and interests. It also helped build trust and reduce his anxieties and fears.
Kimberley, Health Play Specialist
From crafting intricate artworks to conducting fascinating science experiments like the volcano project, Salem's curiosity was nurtured, providing him with moments of joy and respite during his hospital admission.
Over three days, Salem embarked on an educational journey, crafting a volcano masterpiece using recycled materials and his boundless imagination. This hands-on volcano science experiment is an excellent way to help children understand how ingredients can combine to create chemical reactions, particularly how vinegar and baking soda react with each other. It also helps children develop their concepts and vocabulary, encouraging them to make predictions and articulate their thinking.
On the first day, Salem constructed the volcano using a recycled plastic bottle and papier-mâché, laying the foundation for his scientific exploration. He mixed PVA glue with water and adhered newspaper to the bottle, creating the base for the volcano effect.
On day two, Salem adorned the volcano with black, red, and orange paint, meticulously capturing the vibrant colours of a real volcano. With a paintbrush and roller in hand, Salem brought his vision to life, infusing creativity into his scientific endeavours. The masterpiece was left to dry overnight, heightening anticipation for the grand experiment.
On the third day, Salem eagerly employed vinegar and bicarbonate of soda to produce a mesmerising, overflowing, bubbly volcano effect. The joy on Salem's face was palpable as he witnessed the chemical reaction, observing the eruption from the creation he meticulously crafted.
I really liked making the volcano and seeing it erupt. It was so cool!
Salem
Salem filling up volcano with the help of Kimberley
Through hands-on experiences like these, Salem not only found a unique outlet for his artistic talents but also gained valuable insights into scientific concepts, fostering his love for learning.
Salem's journey at Great Ormond Street Hospital exemplifies our commitment to providing personalised care that goes beyond medical treatment. By offering engaging and enriching experiences, we strive to create a positive environment where children like Salem can thrive, despite the challenges they may face.
Salem and Kimberley with the final product
Play is important for patients and young people, especially when in hospital. With the largest hospital Play team in Europe, we support children and young people to access play materials, and Play specialists use playful methods for preparation, distraction, and post-procedural play. Some patients are with us for a while, so utilising play helps to keep them motivated and boost morale. The team of Play Specialists at GOSH encounters around 200-300 children each day. You can find more about our Play Team here.
