Play is essential to the overall development, growth, and well-being of children. However, when a child enters a healthcare setting, it can often cause fear and anxiety. In today’s society, the benefits of free play can be overlooked, especially in the healthcare setting. The purpose of this study was to examine how child life specialists (CLS) promote free play within the healthcare setting guided by Piaget’s theory of cognitive development. In this qualitative study, three CLS were interviewed. Interview questions were coded according to the protocol outlined by Auerback and Silverstein (2003). Responses were carefully analyzed and grouped into repeating ideas. The researcher identified themes that were seen throughout the interviews. Finally, the themes were grouped together to create theoretical constructs. Results revealed the importance in properly educating child life students, CLS, the healthcare team, and the community. Additionally, the strength of relationships with healthcare team members is more valuable than the toys children are given to play with.

Keywords: free play, child life, healthcare environment.