Child Life Specialists
Our certified Child Life specialists are trained professionals who help children and their families understand the hospital environment. Each Child Life specialist holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree and is skilled at providing developmentally appropriate support, preparation and therapeutic play opportunities to decrease anxieties associated with being in the hospital.
As members of your child's healthcare team, Child Life specialists partner with families to tailor interventions to best meet that child’s individual needs. They provide:
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Preparation before surgery, exams and other potentially anxiety-provoking experiences by using developmentally appropriate language, books and other teaching materials to reduce stress and increase understanding.
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Medical play by using specially adapted dolls, as well as real and pretend medical equipment, to enhance understanding and clarify misconceptions.
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Help
manage pain and encourage relaxation by offering various techniques such as comfort positioning, guided imagery and deep breathing exercises.
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Procedural support by modeling positive coping strategies using developmentally appropriate items such as bubbles, viewmasters and books.
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Developmental play opportunities to promote continued development through age-appropriate activities at the bedside, in play groups and in outpatient waiting areas.
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Sibling support by helping siblings understand what is happening, help them work through their feelings and answer their questions about the hospital experience.
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Bereavement support by providing support and resources for grief and bereavement issues.
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