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Published on February 04, 2022

Tidelands Health pediatric patients receive ‘prescription for play’ through partnership with LEGO

Young patients are getting a special “prescription” when visiting Tidelands Health Pediatrics for routine check-ups.

Dr. Lucretia Carter, pediatric medical director at Tidelands Health, holds the kit provided to young patients through the Prescription for Play program.During a wellness visit, patients between the ages of 18 months and 3 years can receive a specially packaged free DUPLO toy set and a “prescription” to play for 15 minutes. The goal is to help in the child’s development of key skills, promote interaction and help strengthen the bond between children and their parent or caregiver.

Tidelands Health Pediatrics provides the free prescription booklets and toys to parents through the Prescription for Play program of The LEGO Group.

“This is by far the most fun ‘prescription’ I give to my patients,” said Dr. Lucretia Carter, pediatric medical director at Tidelands Health. “Our team wants to see our patients grow into all-around healthy adults. Establishing a solid foundation early is crucial. While fun, the ‘prescription’ to play also serves as a tool to help these young children develop dexterity, coordination and other important skills as they grow. This type of play has many proven developmental benefits.”

The extra attention on developing these basic skills has taken on added importance over the past two years as the COVID-19 pandemic has created a tumultuous time with stress, isolation and disruptions in school access and learning.

“We are fortunate to be able to roll out this program to help provide extra attention and focus on learning and development,” Dr. Carter said. “Now more than ever, our kids need to reap the benefits of play in their development.”

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.