A pioneering project pairing clown doctors with young children with vision impairments has been welcomed by families.
Launched by Sight Scotland and the Hearts and Minds charity, the play sessions aim to help youngsters form early friendships.
Experts say they could be vital in supporting child development, laying the foundation for their future education and wellbeing.
For two-year-old Cian and his friend Archie, a special visit from clown doctors Dr Biscuit and Dr Beatz is the highlight of their week.
STV NewsArchie’s mum Kiana Mullan told STV News: “He is a lot, all the time – but he’s amazing. He’s the most resilient boy.
“Since coming here, it’s been so much better. His willingness to play, the way he bonds with people – it’s all improved.
“I think when you have an unsettled child, it can feel isolating and lonely. When you’re going through the exact same thing, comparing stories and offloading to each other, it takes a lot off your shoulders.
“Since he’s been here, his development has been so much better. As soon as he walks into the room, he’s already made a bond with these people.”
Cian’s mum Jo Tait said: “He’s been getting a lot of enjoyment from this.
“His facial expressions show how much he really enjoys it. He’s a lot more sociable and loves being chucked about. Some of noises we’ve introduced at home, which has been really beneficial for Cian. He’s just full of fun.
“It’s good for him and good for us.”
STV NewsExperts say this kind of early intervention through play sessions can be vital in helping with child development – laying the foundation for their future education and social interaction.
Ronan McMahon is ‘Dr Biscuit’ from Hearts and Minds.
“We’ve seen an increase in familiarity with us and grow more comfortable,” he said. “It’s a great sign of them engaging with us.
“We’re trying to build a caring and supportive space over simple games and activities where they’re coming from their unique imagination and experiences. Every day is different.
“We’re about that deep connection and a sense of compassion and empathy.
“Everyone’s doing a great job and we’re working with the staff to see development in the children as they go along.”
The play sessions are being piloted in Edinburgh and Glasgow and the team say they hope to expand the service.
Sight Scotland’s head of learning Lucy Chetty said: “What’s really important is that it has the impact we want it to have; families feeling connected, young people feeling they have a peer group, and a sense of shared safety and fun through the groups we’re running.
“We’ve seen a huge sense of playfulness and anticipation. They’re really excited for the clowns to come along.
“It’s lovely to see that excitement build over time.”
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