01Boyatzis & Varghese, 1994
Bright colors can invite positive responses
In a study of 60 children ages 5 to 6½, children gave more positive responses to several bright colors than to darker colors.
Read the sourceResearch & impact
Small details can make a moment feel brighter
Stitched With Love draws inspiration from research on children's responses to color and the value of therapeutic play in healthcare settings.
Made to feel cheerful and welcomingThe ideas behind every stitch
Three findings that guide the project
These findings inspire thoughtful design choices. A crocheted animal is a gift of encouragement, not a medical treatment or a promise of a particular outcome.
02Jonauskaite & Mohr, 2025
Color and emotion show recurring patterns
A review of 132 studies found recurring links between emotion and color lightness, saturation, and hue across 64 countries.
Read the source03American Academy of Pediatrics
Therapeutic play supports children in pediatric care
Child Life services use therapeutic play and age-appropriate activities to help children cope with healthcare experiences.
Read the source
From research to real life
How the ideas show up
We choose cheerful colors and familiar, friendly forms while following guidance from hospitals, Child Life teams, and families. The goal is simple: offer a thoughtful moment of comfort and connection.
Cheerful colorFriendly formsHospital guidance