This vibrant beach-themed play area at the Stollery Children’s Hospital brings the serenity and adventure of the seaside indoors. Designed to provide a calming yet engaging environment, the space immerses young patients and families in a playful coastal oasis.
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Play Zone
A whimsical sandcastle anchors the space, surrounded by ocean-inspired murals and themed seating that extend the underwater adventure. At the center, a bright yellow submarine tunnel connects the indoor play area to an outdoor play space, inviting exploration and imaginative play. -
Kitchen Corner
A welcoming kitchen area features a cartoon crab chef wearing a hat and holding a spatula, adding humor and warmth to the design. This area provides space for activities and small gatherings, making it a comfortable spot for families. -
Donor Recognition
Custom signage throughout the space highlights the names of generous donors, each sign playfully adorned with friendly crab characters—celebrating community involvement in a fun and child-friendly way.
The Beach is really a safe space for them to come into being control of their activities and what they want to do. Just giving them back an opportunity to be in control of some elements of their care is vitally important to their growth and development and their coping in hospital.
– Alison Naylor, Child Life Specialist at Stollery
You know the adrenaline kicks in and you’re just trying to figure out what’s going on with your kid, how to get him the care he needs. It was a relief after five days of being in here to see him smiling, giggling. For us just to play as a father and son, I wouldn’t have expected this to be something we could do at a hospital.