Helping Injured Toddlers To Rebuild Through Play and Care

Born into an Indonesian refugee family, 20-month-old Sasa faced challenges far beyond her age. In May 2025, she was admitted to a public hospital with suspected non-accidental injury, which affected her brain, vision and muscular development. Her prolonged hospital stays during this critical stage of early childhood deprived her of a stable living environment and posed significant challenges to her physical and emotional development.

During this difficult period, “Cradle Harbour: Ensuring Infants’ Smooth Transitions from Hospital to Children's Residential Home” – a project funded by the Community Chest and operated by Playright Children’s Play Association – provided vital support for Sasa. Through daily therapeutic play tailored to her developmental needs, the hospital play specialists helped strengthen her visual tracking, muscle strength, physical coordination and ability to engage with the world around her. Sasa gradually began to rebuild her confidence and sense of security.

With sustained support, Sasa made encouraging progress. She gradually learned to roll over on her own, follow toys and faces with her eyes, and respond more actively to her surroundings. She also began saying simple words. In addition to supporting her development, Hospital play specialists also proactively liaised and worked closely with social workers and other professionals to provide developmental assessments and coordinated support. This has enhanced Sasa’s transition to residential child care services to begin a new chapter in life.

Sasa’s father shared, “Thank you to the hospital play specialists for spending so much time with Sasa and taking good care of her.” His simple words reflected the family’s heartfelt gratitude for the care and companionship they received.

The Chest is committed to supporting children and families in need. By funding Cradle Harbour: Ensuring Infants’ Smooth Transitions from Hospital to Children’s Residential Care Services, the Chest helps vulnerable toddlers like Sasa receive timely and appropriate support, overcome adversity and regain hope for a brighter future through love and care.