1 June 2018

The Language of Play

Our Giggle Doctors are trained to work in many ways to ensure that play and all the benefits that come from it are available to children, no matter how unwell they may be. Often they may visit a child who doesn’t speak English or is non verbal and the Giggle Doctors have to find another way to build trust and rapport with the child. Here Dr Nic Nac explains how she recently visited some children who didn’t speak English and how they found their own way to connect and play.

 

Dr Nic Nac

“It was clear from the start that none of us could speak each other’s language. But as I come from a physical comedy background I instantly settled into play within the environment I was in.

 

I quickly connected with the children through expression, touch and sound. Soon I realised I was very comfortable in this environment and not being able to speak the same language did not make a difference to my ability to play and interact with these children. 

 

I took time to connect with each child individually, adjusting my energy and style to the needs of each child. I played with my percussion instruments, did ridiculous dancing and got the children playing with all my silly nic nacs. Soon I felt like one of them. I was in their world. I was a friend, someone who they could relax with and be wildly creative and playful with. The children seemed to forget any language barriers  and felt safe and able to express themselves. With each child, I developed a unique connection.

 

I feel happiest, when I make other people feel like this. It is the most important gift I can give that goes beyond anything physical. The memory of that day will make my heart smile for many years to come.

 

It is experiences like this that constantly remind me that being a Giggle Doctor has to be a personal thing that goes beyond the need for income or great skill. It is about having an unselfish desire to love and connect with those around us who need it most. We are not doing it for any applause or recognition. It is very often an unnoticed thing, unique moments made everyday for the children who receive them. 

 

As Giggle Doctors we are never fully able to witness the long term impact of our visits. But sometimes a child refuses to stop following you or to let you go, or a parent thanks you sincerely for changing their day. Other times members of staff find their spirits lifted when you enter the ward and they tell you tales of how happy everyone was last time you visited. It is only then that you realise that you are doing a good job. Being a Giggle Doctor has defined who I am in life, I love it and would never want to be anything else!”

 

Dr Hip Hap and Dr Flowerpot are interviewed on BBC Radio Nottingham

Next article