Child Life Program

What Is Child Life?
Child life is a program to help children and adolescents understand and cope with the stress and anxiety brought on by their hospitalization, illness, or handicap.

Our goal with Child Life is to make your child's hospital stay a positive experience for both the patient and for the family.

Importance Of Play
Play is an important part of children's lives. It is the way they learn about the world. During times of stress, such as hospitalization or medical treatment, play can provide something safe and familiar. This helps a child cope more positively with the experience while promoting development and independence.

Some of the activities we offer include:

• Appropriate toys, puzzles, crafts, games, movies, video games, and computer access.
• Special visits from costumed characters, athletes, and therapy dogs.
• Special activities for infants, children, and teens at bedside or in the activity center.
• We also celebrate holidays and special occasions, such as a patient's birthday.

Children's Miracle Network
The Child Life Program at WVU Children's Hospital is supported by funds raised through Children's Miracle Network.