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The Power of Play: Providing Children Comfort + Connection

October 27, 2025

Tufts Medicine Care at Home delivers complex medical care to patients of all ages in the comfort of their homes. While home-based care can ease anxiety and improve quality of life, it can also be isolating— especially for children facing serious diagnoses. Many pediatric patients can’t attend school or interact with peers, leaving them disconnected during an already difficult time.

Child playing tablet at home

Thanks to the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, Care at Home is helping bridge that gap.

Support from Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation provides pediatric patients with interactive gaming devices that offer entertainment, connection and a sense of normalcy during treatment.

With this grant, Care at Home has distributed devices like Nintendo Switch systems, LeapFrog tablets, PS4 consoles and iPads—each chosen based on the child’s age, development and needs. For immunocompromised children, these devices offer a safe way to stay connected with friends and family. They also give kids a break from focusing on illness and moments to just be kids.

As of August 2025, 16 children and their families have received gaming devices, bringing joy and relief during a stressful time. In some cases, siblings have also received devices, recognizing the emotional toll a serious diagnosis can have on the whole family. This grant has created shared experiences and smiles for patients and loved ones alike.

Discover more about opportunities to give to Care at Home

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