Research and development project

Kidkit - Designing for Playful Care in hospitals

Participants from Kolding School of Design
Research and development project type
Research and development
Project period
Jan 2012 - Dec 2013
Project management

Sofie Kinch

LAB
LAB for Play Design
LAB theme
Playful Care
Fund
Alexandra Instituttet / Arkitektskolen Aarhus
Collaboration partners
Aarhus University Hospital
Background
The project, developed as part of a PhD study, was evaluated at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.

About the project

When a loved one is hospitalized with severe injuries, families face a difficult dilemma: should young children visit the intensive care unit? Many parents hesitate, fearing the experience will be overwhelming. However, research shows that involving children in a relative’s illness can help demystify their fears and reduce trauma later in life.

Kidkit is a design intervention that supports children through this challenging experience. As an interactive, mobile, and transformable piece of furniture, Kidkit helps young visitors gradually adjust to the hospital ward’s sensory environment. In a quiet waiting space, children can engage with Kidkit through play, safely exploring unfamiliar sights and sounds. When they feel ready, children—accompanied by staff—can wheel Kidkit into the ward, where it unfolds into a stairway. This allows them to approach their hospitalized relative at their own pace, fostering a sense of control and emotional security.

Contact

LAB for Play Design
Sofie Kinch
Assistant Professor, LAB for Play Design