The Power of Play: Trinity Health Therapy-Themed Room at Play Muskegon

Play Muskegon, an interactive play center, was created for kids to explore creativity, build confidence, and develop important developmental skills through hands-on play. With imaginative environments like a miniature grocery store, doctor’s office, and bakeshop, the space is designed to encourage communication, problem-solving, independence, and social growth through the power of play.

As part of its ongoing commitment to community well-being, Trinity Health Rehabilitation and Trinity Health Medical Group Primary Care in Norton Shores have partnered with Play Muskegon to create a doctor’s office and therapy-themed playroom. Designed to reflect elements of occupational, speech, and physical therapy, the room includes items such as balance boards and blood pressure cuffs to help children explore and engage with tools used in real-life therapy and medical settings.

This collaboration began in February, when Trinity Health first partnered with Play Muskegon to address sensory needs identified by families. Together, they developed sensory backpacks filled with tools to support children during playtime. 

Trinity Health Rehabilitation sponsored five sensory backpacks for Play Muskegon. These backpacks were provided to help kids when they feel overstimulated within the Play Café. They include tools such as a weighted lap pad, sunglasses, noise-cancelling headphones, a magnifying glass, a fidget spinner, and a timer. These tools help children adapt when they find themselves in situations where they may be exposed to unfamiliar environments (bright lights, loud noises, etc.).

While delivering the backpacks, Trinity Health saw the opportunity to expand their impact through room sponsorship, an idea that quickly took shape with the help of Elaine Starkey-Ingalls, OTR/L, ATC, CPST, occupational therapist, and Tarajo Hanrahan, MD. 

“We were able to design a space that encourages exploration and supports child development. The room was not only well-received by families, but it also reflects the kind of meaningful, community-centered work that reflects the mission and values of Trinity Health,” said Elaine.

The new room officially opened on May 21, with more than 50 children and parents in attendance. Dr. Hanrahan, Elaine, and Holly Alway (injury prevention coordinator at Trinity Health Muskegon) were on-site to answer questions and introduce families to the therapeutic tools and services represented in the space.

“Play Muskegon gave us a great opportunity to collaborate and advocate for therapy services while using real equipment to engage children in a safe environment. We were so fortunate to participate in the Play and Learn in May meeting to educate parents and caregivers on what Trinity Health can offer them,” said Elaine. 

“We were able to provide a playroom that explains physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician visits in a developmentally appropriate and engaging way through play. The community was well-engaged, and the partnership allows us to continue our commitment to our community,” said Dr. Hanrahan.

Through this thoughtful partnership, Trinity Health and Play Muskegon continue to create inclusive, enriching play experiences that support child development in a fun, community-centered environment. 

"Having the Trinity Health room has really allowed us the opportunity to give families the resources to talk and play pretend with some of those situations that don't happen as frequently, like going to the doctor's or going to the therapist," said Jacqui Robinson, owner of Play Muskegon.

Alana Holland, health reporter with WZZM13, visited Play Muskegon to check out the new play opportunities and talk with occupational therapist Elaine Starkey-Ingalls. Watch this story. 

Play sessions at Play Muskegon can be booked on their website, and information about Rehabilitation and Therapy services can be found at Rehabilitation and Therapy Services.