Playing with LEGO® MRI Scanner Models Eases Kids’ Anxiety

Program Impact

·May 13th, 2026

MRI scans are often an overwhelming experience for seriously ill kids. They often feel anxious and scared because they must stay still, sometimes for hours, in a small space with loud sounds.

The LEGO MRI Scanner model was created to let kids learn about the medical procedure in the hospital. Designed by the LEGO Group and the LEGO Foundation, the LEGO MRI Scanner set features a scanner, patient bed, waiting room, staff minifigures and medical accessories.

Delivering Comfort Nationwide

For the past two years, Starlight has been the US distributor of the LEGO MRI Scanner models to its hospital network across the country through it’s Starlight Toy Delivery program.

Child life specialists, along with other medical staff, have used the set to give kids like Jameson a more child-centered, playful approach when teaching them about what will happen during the scan.

Hear from our hospital partners about how the LEGO MRI Scanners have supported their play-based care for pediatric patients:

Molly, CCLS

"This past month has been nothing short of a child life dream come true. I was overjoyed to see Starlight provide the LEGO MRI scanner sets—something I’ve been desperately trying to obtain for my pediatric patients for years.

These sets are such a crucial part of helping kids understand and process the medical experiences they face. For my recently diagnosed oncology patients, who often encounter MRIs early in their journey, receiving these LEGO sets has been incredibly meaningful.

Watching their faces light up as they engage with the set has been truly moving. It’s not just a toy; it’s a tool that makes an emotional difference. I am beyond grateful to have this resource now as part of our Child Life program."

Lego MRI Set_NCH North Hospital — NCH North hospital staff building LEGO MRI Scanner sets.

NCH North Hospital Staff

“These playful, hands-on models turn something that can feel scary into a fun learning moment, and that means the world to us and our kiddos.

From all of us at NCH Pediatrics, thank you for bringing smiles, comfort, and creativity to our care.”

Play is an Essential Part of Pediatric Care

Play isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s an essential part of care. It helps children ease stress and anxiety while making medical procedures feel less scary and easier to understand.

Hospitals recognize the value of play-based programs for seriously ill kids. In partnership with Child Life Services and through donor support, hospitals can provide these critical resources to kids free-of-cost. Families are never billed for this essential care.

That’s why community heroes like you are so important.

Without your help, Starlight’s Toy Deliveries program can continue to provide resources that give kids essential care.

Your help ensures that kids across the country can play to feel less anxious and more confident going into procedures.