Therapeutic Playrooms in the Tkuma Region

The trauma of war and evacuation has caused many children to develop symptoms such as language regression, eating and sleep disorders, temper tantrums, and more. In order to help the children and their parents, Rashi has joined a coalition of foundations and the Ministry of Health to operate therapeutic playrooms in several centers for evacuated residents of southern and northern Israel.

In view of the success of this initiative, the Tkuma Administration has adopted the model, with necessary adjustments, for operation in western Negev communities whose residents have returned home. Five therapeutic playrooms were established in the city of Sderot and the regional councils of Eshkol, Sha’ar Hanegev, Sdot Negev and Hof Ashkelon, which were hard hit by the war. They operate in collaboration with the Health Ministry and with the support of the Shashua Family Foundation, the Beracha Foundation, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto and the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA).

The playroom is intended for children from birth to age 6 and their parents, targeting those who suffered trauma and are at developmental risk. Its team comprises professionals with experience in child development, including developmental psychologist, social worker, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, speech therapist and child dietician. The team identifies distress situations, offers guidance to parents and educators, and refers children to further treatment when necessary

The intervention at the playroom addresses issues such as: organizing an environment that supports optimal development, advancing child development in different life situations and under stress, response to “red light” behavior, the parental role and parent-child interactions, and so on.

Partners

Government | Local authorities | Philanthropy