A hospital stay is an unfamiliar situation for children. A varied children’s program is designed to provide the young patients at GPR Klinikum Rüsselsheim with additional joy, variety, and wonderful experiences. The program is organized by “Smiles for Kids,” an initiative founded by Sarah Koblitz, who, together with other volunteers, has set out to provide young patients with varied activities, a sense of community, and positive experiences during their hospital stay.
Since late October 2026, the program has regularly featured creative activities, group games, and special event days. It kicked off with the “My Children’s Ward” activity, during which the children created rainbows, stars, suns, animals, and flowers. Their artwork will decorate the playroom in the future.
“We want to bring joy to the children through these various activities, let them be creative, and provide them with wonderful shared experiences. Especially during a hospital stay, such moments offer a valuable break from the daily routine,” explains Sarah Koblitz, organizer of the children’s program.
Regional partners are also involved: During soccer day, players from TV 1890 e. V. Haßloch will work with the children to design their own jerseys and host a soccer quiz. Another activity day with the fire department will feature a quiz and the opportunity to see a fire truck up close.
“In addition to providing good medical and nursing care, it’s important to us that the children feel well cared for here,” says Ellen Flocke, nursing director of the pediatric ward.
The program is rounded out by fall crafts, Christmas crafts, cookie baking sessions, and board games. The playroom is also being enhanced with additional activities such as books and art supplies.
Dr. Christiane Wiethoff, chief physician of the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, welcomes the additional offerings: “Creative activities and shared experiences can help make their daily hospital life easier and provide them with pleasant moments during their stay. In addition, positive experiences can help alleviate the children’s anxiety and thus contribute to a faster recovery.”