BSA Health System on Friday unveiled three new Little Bees Playhouses, donated by Children’s Miracle Network of Amarillo, to bolster pediatric therapy at BSA Outpatient Therapy Services.
Valued at $40,000 to $50,000, the playhouses are designed to incorporate play-based learning for children who receive physical, occupational and speech therapy. Jennifer Hawley, manager of BSA Outpatient Therapy Services, said the new additions are already making a difference.
“We have three playhouses now that benefit our pediatric population,” Hawley said. “Play is at the heart of therapy. It helps children meet developmental milestones — gross motor, fine motor, cognitive and language skills — without feeling like they’re ‘working.’ These houses let them climb, communicate and have fun, all while meeting crucial therapy goals.”
Hawley added that the playhouses spark children’s imaginations in ways traditional therapy equipment often cannot.
“Kids will spend time pretending to run a gas station, hosting a tea party or even fixing a toy car,” she said. “They’re learning to use their muscles, voices and minds in ways that are completely natural to them. It’s inspiring to see how motivated they become.”
BSA’s pediatric therapy team serves about 100 children each week, providing care from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Previously, staff members improvised with everyday household items or in-house obstacles to engage young patients. Now, the Little Bees Playhouses — customized versions from a locally owned concept — offer a more realistic, engaging environment that supports developmental growth.
Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) approved and funded the playhouse project through its annual grant application process, expanding BSA’s therapy options. Brooke Rodriques, director of Children’s Miracle Network, said the collaboration underscores CMN’s mission.
“CMN believes every child deserves the chance to grow, play and reach their fullest potential,” Rodriques said. “We’re proud to support BSA’s Pediatric Therapy Services. Through play, kids build strength, confidence and essential skills. These Little Bees Playhouses make therapy sessions more engaging and effective — something we’re thrilled to be part of.”
Rodriques also emphasized that community support fuels CMN’s ability to fund child-centered innovations.
“Generous support from our community partners enables CMN to fund innovative, child-friendly solutions that truly impact children’s well-being,” she said. “We’re committed to ensuring kids receive the support and environment they need to thrive.”
By weaving playful exploration into treatment, BSA Outpatient Therapy Services continues its mission of offering quality healthcare with Christian love, service and dignity. For more information about BSA’s pediatric services, visit bsahs.org. To learn how Children’s Miracle Network supports local healthcare initiatives, visit cmnamarillo.org.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: BSA debuts three playhouses to enhance pediatric therapy
Reporting by Michael Cuviello, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
