Child Life Specialists: Helping Children Cope with Hospitalization
At Valley Children’s, we know that healing isn’t just physical, it’s emotional, too.
March marks Child Life Month, and this past year we marked the 55th anniversary of our own Child Life Services team, and our specialists and assistants who have helped children understand and cope with hospitalization.
Focusing on the developmental needs of children, Child Life specialists have stood beside them and their families during some of their most difficult moments, providing education, play and emotional support. Child Life assistants oversee the Playroom and George’s Clubhouse.
From preparing a child for surgery to guiding families through grief, these professionals ensure that fear and uncertainty never overshadow care.
Child Life specialists are an integral part of the medical team, collaborating with doctors and nurses to meet the unique emotional needs of hospitalized children. Their work includes:
- Explaining illnesses and hospital routines in ways kids can understand
- Preparing children for procedures and surgeries
- Providing therapeutic play and creative activities
- Offering grief and bereavement support
- Organizing special events and entertainment that bring joy to the hospital
Our team includes 14 specialists, seven assistants, a music therapist and a coordinator, all dedicated to creating moments of normalcy and reassurance. Last year alone, they delivered more than 33,000 units of service (each unit equals 15 minutes) and supported more than 6,000 patients.
Among services offered are access to the Playroom and George’s Clubhouse, kids’ sanctuaries where they can enjoy arts and crafts, music, board games, reading, movies and video games. The Playroom also hosts events like bingo, holiday celebrations and special guests and celebrity characters.