This course includes a needs assessment and a critically appraised topic for social engagement and isolation in children with chronic illnesses in the hospital. This course also includes an occupational therapy doctoral capstone project for providing resources, activities, and social participation ideas for children that are in the hospital for an extended period of time. My doctoral capstone objectives for this presentation are to discuss my experience, research, ideas, and conclusions as a whole. I have a passion for educating and promoting the importance of play, especially with children experiencing a difficult time. In this course Iemphasize the crucial role play takes in creating an outlet for children to express emotions, thoughts, reactions, ideas, etc. As occupational therapists, we hold play as a high priority and believe play can pose physical, emotional, and mental benefits in every day life. My goal for this course and for my doctoral capstone as a whole was to continue to educate not only parents and children, but other healthcare professionals on the importance of play and assist them in seeing play beyond the surface level and see the benefits play encompasses. My hope is that after participating in this course, viewers can see play through a new lens and challenge themselves to encourage play to increase social participation and engagement for all ages, not only in the hospital, but in every day life to create optimal quality of life.