[The use of play therapy (Animazione) in the hospitalized child]

In order to eliminate negative psychological sequelae of hospitalisation of children, Animazione was performed on 2 children wards. On the internal children ward Animazione was seen to be a valuable help to reduce fear by selfportrayal in play, into which also visiting parents could be introduced. On the psychosomatic ward Animazione could only be used in close cooperation with the psychotherapist of a particular child. Then it could be a fulfillment of therapeutic measures in contact with the therapeutic team of the ward. Animazione had to be used here in a modified way with aim in view: the therapeutic team on this ward after elimination of the hierarchic pyramid had taken over an increased initiative and selfresponsibility.