Physical Health South Africa Project #56852

Building a Dream Room in the Pediatric Ward

Project Report | Dec 22, 2025
Creating Safe Spaces for Healing and Play

By Deveny Fuller | Project Leader

The Building a Dream Room project has had a meaningful and positive impact on pediatric wards, successfully transforming

traditionally sterile medical spaces into warm, welcoming sanctuaries of play and relaxation for children undergoing treatment.

Through the use of bright murals, engaging colors, and thoughtfully designed environments, Dream Rooms provide children with a sense of comfort and escape during what can be an overwhelming medical journey. The inclusion of educational games and toys, interactive Virtual Reality experiences, and group-based activities encourages creativity, social connection, and emotional expression. These elements play a crucial role in helping children form friendships, support one another, and experience moments of normalcy during treatment.

Staffed by psychology graduates with backgrounds in early childhood development, the Dream Rooms offer more than just distraction or entertainment. The structured activities are intentionally designed to support children’s developmental needs and milestones, ensuring holistic care alongside medical treatment. This approach has proven valuable not only for the children but also for families and medical teams, who benefit from reduced stress and a more supportive healing environment.

This year marked a significant milestone for the project with the opening of eight new Dream Rooms across the country, bringing the total to 57. This expansion reflects both the success of the initiative and the growing recognition of the importance of child-centered, developmentally supportive spaces in healthcare settings.

Overall, the Building a Dream Room project stands as a powerful example of how thoughtful design, professional expertise, and compassion can come together to improve the hospital experience for children, families, and healthcare professionals alike.

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