We understand that a hospital stay or visit can be challenging for children and their families. Child Life Specialists are trained child development professionals who work with children and families to help them cope with the potential stressors associated with their hospitalization and illness. As a member of the care team, your Child Life Specialist supports you and your child during a hospital stay, surgery or a visit to the pediatric emergency department.
Novack Family Child Life Specialists are assigned to every pediatric inpatient unit including the Pediatrics Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Child Life Specialists are also available via outpatient services such as same day surgery, radiology, emergency services and the pediatric specialty care center.
Child Life Specialists are also available to:
- Encourage understanding and cooperation by providing preparation and support for children undergoing tests, surgeries and other medical procedures (including pre-op tours).
- Provide opportunities for therapeutic medical play. Through exploration and play, children have the opportunity to learn about the hospital in a non-threatening manner.
- Provide therapeutic play to help your child express feelings associated with hospitalization.
- Offer play opportunities for normalized growth and development. Activities and games that let your child feel mastery over a situation and more in control over his or her hospital experience varies play spaces available on each unit.
