Child Life Program
Medical Play
In the Activity Center or at the bedside, you can often find a Child Life Specialist providing "medical play." This type of play helps children express their feelings about medical treatments and procedures.
Children can play and explore using real medical equipment and supplies. This can calm their fears and help them become familiar with hospital routines and words. This type of play can also clear up any misunderstandings they may have.
Distraction and Coping
The Child Life Specialist can help ease children's fear when facing the challenges of medicine and procedures by drawing their attention to calming, fun activities. Blowing bubbles, looking at pop-up books or relaxing with music and stories help make procedures less threatening