A playroom and a playground are already part of the stabilization unit and are furnished with basic facilities for engaging the SAM children in play-based motor, language, and personal-social activities. The severely acute malnourished children in the intervention group will be sent to a development pediatrician who will do a developmental assessment of the child and stimulation. A sensory therapist, an occupational therapist, and a physiotherapist will also be available for sessions.
All children aged 6m to 59 months admitted to stabilization centre fulfilling criteria of severe acute malnutrition will be included in study.
Children with chronic diseases like cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, celiac disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver failure, congenital heart disease, inborn error of metabolism, cleft lip and palate will be excluded from study.